
Glass. 
Book. 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT 



AN OUTLINE 



MEDICAL CHEMISTRY, 



USE OF STUDENTS. 



BY 

B. HOWAKD KAOT), A.M., M.D., 

PROFESSOR OF CHEMISTRY IN THE PHILADELPHIA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE; LECTURER 

ON GENERAL CHEMISTRY TO THE FRANKLIN INSTITUTE OF THE STATE OF 

PENNSYLVANIA; RECORDING SECRETARY OF THE ACADEMY OF 

NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA; FELLOW OF 

THE PHILADELPHIA COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS. 




PHILADELPHIA: 
LINDSAY &"BLAKISTON. 

1855. 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1855, 

BY LINDSAY & BLAKISTON, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Eastern District of 
Pennsylvania. 



C. SHERMAN & SOX, PRINTERS, 

19 St. James Street. 



PREFACE. 



The object of this little work is expressed by its title, — an 
Outline of Medical Chemistry, which outline is to be filled up by 
aid of text-books or of lectures. 

While, then, it is directive in its character, it has been thought 
useful to insert such facts as are of the most importance, in 
such a form as to be of easy reference for review. 

The science of Chemistry has grown to be one of such extent 
and intricacy, that its study demands the undivided attention of 
those who would be thorough Chemists. 

To expect this of the Medical Student, or Physician, whose 
attention is necessarily diverted by other important pursuits, is 
unreasonable. These may readily gain the essentials of the 
science ; the accomplishments must be attained at leisure, in the 
study or the laboratory. 

The essentials of the science (to medical men) are its principles, 
the laws of affinity, combination, &c, with so much of its detail 
as relates to Pharmacy, Toxicology and Physiological Chemis- 
try. Quantitative analyses are seldom undertaken by the practis- 
ing physician, and the application of Chemistry to the arts gene- 
rally is, although manifestly desirable, by no means essential. 
The attempt to grasp too much often results in failure to com- 
prehend even a little. 

It is believed, that if the study of Chemistry be confined by 



IV PREFACE. 

the student to the limits thus laid down, its acquisition will he 
easy, and the knowledge obtained permanent. 

The department of Organic Chemistry is especially so encum- 
bered and so unsettled, that a very general survey of it has been 
taken. 

The subject of Physiological Chemistry, belonging more pro- 
perly to works in that branch, has been merely touched upon. 

The formulas for the chemical preparations of the U. S. Phar- 
macopoeia have been written in prescription style, as a useful 
exercise to the student, as well as for compactness ; the direc- 
tions are in English. The symbols have generally been em- 
ployed, in preference to naming the element or compound, for 
the same reasons. 

The nature and limits of the work have not permitted refe- 
rence to disputed points, nor, generally, to authorities. Much 
aid has been obtained from the invaluable U. S. Dispensatory of 
Wood and Bache, and in the department of Organic Chemistry, 
both as relates to the arrangement and the facts, from Dr. 
Bridges' edition of Fownes' Chemistry. 

A Glossary has been added, containing such terms and syno- 
nyms as would be most perplexing to the beginner. 



ANALYTICAL 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



PART I.— PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 





PAGE 


I. Attraction, . 


13 


A. Between like particles. 




a. Cohesion, ..... 


13 


B. Between unlike particles. 




a. Adhesion, .... 


14 


b. Chemical affinity, .... 


15 


Laws of Combination, . 


16 


Symbols, ..... 


17 


Nomenclature, .... 


17 


c. Decomposition, .... 


18 


a. Decomposition proper, 


19 


b. Decomposition by superior affinity, . 


19 


1. Single elective affinity, 


19 


2. Double elective affinity, . 


19 


d. Specific Gravity, . 


20 


e. Electrical and Magnetic Attraction, 


21 


II. Repulsion. 




A. Light, ..-■-.-. 


22 


a. Reflection, .... 


22 


b. Transmission, 


22 


c. Absorption, .... 


23 


Polarization, .... 

B 


23 



VI 



CONTENTS. 




B. Heat, ..... 


23 


a. Sources, .... 


23 


b. Communication, 


23 


1. Radiation, 


23 


2. Conduction, 


24 


3. Convection, . 


24 


c. Capacity for heat, 


24 


Specific heat, 


24 


d. Latent heat, . 


25 


e. Effects of heat, 


25 


1. Expansion, 


25 


2. Change of state, 


26 


/. Measurement of heat, 


26 


Medical applications of heat, 


27 


C. Magnetism, .... 


27 


D. Electricity, .... 


28 


a. Statical Electricity, . , 


28 


B. Dynamic Electricity, Galvanism, 


29 


Effects of Electrical Current, . 


30 


1. Physical, 


30 


2. Chemical, 


31 


3. Physiological, 


31 


Medical applications of, 


32 


c. Magneto-electricity, 


32 


d. Thermo-electricity, 


32 



PART II— INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 



Table of Elements, 

I. Oxygen, ..... 

II. Hydrogen, 

a. Water, ..... 

a. *Aqua, 

b. *Aqtja Destillata — Distilled Water, 



34 

36 

37 
38 
39 
39 



* Officinal in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia. 



CONTENTS. 



Vll 



c. Aqile Medicate — Medicated Waters, 

Maceration, Digestion, Infusion, Decoction 
Lixiviation, . 

III. Nitrogen, ..... 

a. The Atmosphere, .... 

Barometer, .... 

Mariott's law, .... 

Hygrometers, dew point, . 

Effects of Respiration and Combustion, 

Ventilation, 

b. Protoxide of Nitrogen — Nitrous Oxide (Laughing 

Gas), NO, 

c. Binoxide of Nitrogen (Nitric Oxide), N0 2 , 

d. Nitrous Acid (Hyponitrous Acid), N0 3 , 

e. Hyponitric Acid (Nitrous Acid), N0 4 , 

f. ^Nitric Acid, N0 5 , . . 

Toxicol. Effects, Impurities, Tests, 
Officinal forms. 

a. *Acidum Nitricum, 

b. *Acidum Nitricum Dilutum, 

g. Ammonium, 

IV. Carbon. 

Officinal forms. 

a. *Carbo Ligni (Wood Charcoal), . 

b. *Carbo Animalis (Animal Charcoal), 

a. Carbonic Oxide, CO, 

b. Oxalic Acid, HO,C 2 3 , 

c. ^Carbonic Acid, C0 2 , . 

a. *Aqua Acidi Carbonici (Mineral Water), 

d. Cyanogen, NC 2 , 

a. Hydrocyanic Acid, 

1. *Acidum Hydrocyanicum Dilutum, 

e. Hydrocarbons, .... 

Nature and Structure of Flame, 

V. Sulphur, ..... 

Officinal forms. 

a. -^Sulphur (Flowers of Sulphur), 

b. ^Sulphur Lotum (Washed Sulphur), 



Vlll 



CONTENTS. 



c. ^Sulphur Prjecipitatum (Precipitated SuL 

phur, Lac Sulphuris, Milk of Sulphur), 

d. *ITnguentum Sulphuris, . 

e. *Uhguentum Sulphuris Comp., 

a. Sulphurous Acid, S0 2 , . . . . 

b. ^Sulphuric Acid, S0 3 , 

Nordhausen Acid, .... 
Anhydrous Acid, 
Officinal forms. 

a. *AdDUM SULPHURICUM, 

b. *AdDUM SULPHURICUM DlLUTUM, 

c. *Acidum Scjlphuricum Aromaticum (El: 

of Vitriol), . 

c. Hydrosulphuric Acid — Sulphuretted Hydro 

gen, HS, 

d. Bisulphide of Carbon, CS 2 , 

VI. Phosphorus, 
a. Phosphoric Acid, 

a. Anhydrous, 

b. Monobasic, 

c. Bibasic, 

d. Tribasic, . • 
b.' Hydrides of Phosphorus, 

VII. Chlorine, 

Halogen Bodies, 
Hydracids, 
Haloid Salts, 
Compounds of CI with 0, 

a. Chloric Acid, C10 5 , 

b. ^Hydrochloric Acid, HC1, 
Officinal forms. 

a. *Acidum Muriaticum, 

b. *Acidum Muriaticum Dilutum, . 

c. *Acidum Nitromuriaticum (Aqua Regia), 

VIII. *Iodine. 
Officinal forms. 

a. *Iodinium, .... 



71 



CONTENTS. 



IX 



b. *TlNCTURA IODINII, 

C. *TlNCTURA IODINII COMP., 

d. *Liquor Iodinii Comp. (Lugol's Solution), 

e. *Unguentum Iodinii, . 
/. *Unguentum Iodinii Comp., 
q. ^sulphuris iodidum, . 

1. * Unguent. Sulphuris Iodidi, 

IX. Bromine, ..... 

a. *Brominium, . 

X. Fluorine, ..... 

XI. Boron, ..... 

XII. Silicon (Silicum), .... 
The Metals, ..... 

General Properties of, . 

Constitution of Salts, 
Classification, . 

XIII. Potassium (Kalium). 

a. Oxide. — Potassa, KO, 

a. *Liquor Potass^, . 

b. *Potassa (Caustic Potash), 
B. Nitrate. 

c. *Potass,e Nitras (Nitre, Saltpetre), KO,N0 5 , 

c. Carbonates. 

d. *Potass^3 Carbonas Impurus (Pearlash), 

e. *Potass^: Carbonas, KO,C0 2 , 
/. "^Liquor Potass^e Carbonatis, 

g. ^PoTASSiE Carbonas Purus (Salt of Tartar), 
h. *Potass.e Bicarbonas (Sal Aeratus), KO, 
C0 2 + HO,C0 2 , . 

d. Sulphide. 

L *Potassii Sulphuretum (Hepar Sulphuris, 
Liver of Sulphur), KS 3 with KO,S0 3 , . 

e. Sulphate. 

k. *Potass^ Sulphas (Yitriolated Tartar), KO, 
S0 3 , . . . . 

F. Chlorate. 

Z. *Potass^: Chloras, KO,C10 5 , . 



71 

71 
72 
72 
72 
72 
73 
73 
74 
74 
74 
75 
75 
75 
76 
76 



79 

80 

81 
81 
82 
82 

82 

83 

84 
84 



X CONTENTS. 

G. Iodide. 

m. *Potassii Iodidum, KI, . • .85 

n. *Ung. Potassii Iodidi, ... 86 

H. Bromide. 

o. ^Potassii Bromides, KBr, . . .86 

k. Organic Compounds. 

p. *Potassj3 Acetas, KO,(C 4 H 3 3 ), . . 87 

q. *Potass.e Bitartras (Cream of Tartar), KO, 

HO(C 8 H 4 O 10 ), .... 88 
r. *Potassjs Tartras (Soluble Tartar), 2KO, 

(C 8 H 4 O 10 ), .... 88 

s. *Potassje Citras, 8KO,(C 12 H 5 O n ), . 89 

t. ^Liquor Potass^: Citratis (Neutral Mixture), 89 
u. ^Potassii Ferrocyaxuretum (Yellow Prus- 

siate of Potash), 2K,FCy, . . 89 

v. *Potassii Cyaxuretum, KCy, ... 90 

XIV. Sodium, ...... 90 

a. Soda, ...... 91 

b. Carbonates, . . . . .91 

a. *Sodjs Carboxas, NaO,C0 2 , . . 91 

b. *Sod.e Carboxas Exsiccatus, . . 92 

c. *Sodje Bicarboxas (Supercarbonate of Soda), 

NaO,C0 2 +HO,C0 2 , . . . ' 92 

c. Sulphate, . . . . . .93 

d. *SoDiE Sulphas (Glauber's Salt), NaO,S0 3 , 93 

d. Phosphates, . . . . . £4 

e. *Sodje Phosphas, 2NaO,HO,P0 5 , . . 94 

e. Chlorides, ...... 95 

/. *Sodii Chloridtjm (Common Salt), NaCl, . 95 

g. *Liquor Sod^e Chlorixat^e (Labarraque's 

Solution), . . . .96 

f. Borate. 

h. *Sod;e Boras (Borax), NaO,2 B0 5 , . 97 

G. Organic Compounds, . . . .97 

i. *Sod.e Acetas, NaO, A, . . . 97 

k. *Sod.e et Potass.e Tartras (Rochelle Salt), 

KO,NaO,T, . . . .98 

Seidlitz Powders, . . . 98 



CONTENTS. XI 

XV. Ammonium, NH 4 , .... 99 
a. Ammonia, NH 4 0, . . . . .99 

a. *Liquor Ammonite Fortior, . . 100 

b. *Liquor Ammonije, . . . .100 

c. *Spiritus Ammonia (Spirits of Hartshorn), 101 

d. *Spiritus Ammonle Aromaticus, . 101 

e. *Linimentum Ammonle (Volatile Liniment), . 102 
B, Carbonates, ..... 102 

/. *Ammon*2e Carbonas, 2NH 4 0,3C0 2 , . . 102 

c. Hydrosulphate. 

Hydrosulphate of Sulphide of Ammonium, 

NH 4 S,HS, .... 103 

D. Chloride, . . . . . .103 

g. * Ammonite Murias (Sal Ammoniac), NH 4 C1, 103 
e. Acetate. 

h. *Liquor Ammonite Acetatis (Spirit of Minde- 

rerus), NH 4 0, A, . . . . 104 

XVI. Barium, 104 

A. Baryta, BaO, . . . . .104 

Officinal preparations. 

a. *Barii Chloridum, . . . 105 

b. *Liquor Barii Chloridi, . . . 106 

XVII. Strontium, . . . . . 1C6 

XVIII. Calcium, ...... 106 

a. *Linie, CaO, ..... 106 

a. *Calx (Lime), . . . .107 

b. ^Liquor Calcis (Lime Water), . . 107 

c. *Potassa cum Calce (Vienna Paste), . 108 

b. Carbonates, CaO,C0 2 , . . . . 108 

d. *Calcis Carbonas Pr^ecipitatus (Precipi- 

tated Chalk), . . . .108 

e. *Creta Preparata (Prepared Chalk), . 109 
/. *Testa Preparata (Prepared Oyster-Shells), 109 

c. Chlorides, ..... 109 

g. *Calcii Chloridum, NaCl, . . . 109 

h. ^Liquor Calcii Chloridi, . . 110 

i. *Calx Chlorinata (Chloride of Lime), . 110 



Xll CONTENTS. 

d. Sulphate (Gypsum), CaO,S0 3 , ... Ill 

e. Phosphate, ...... Ill 

XIX. Magnesium, . . ; . . Ill 

a. Magnesia, MnO, ..... Ill 

a. ^Magnesia (Calcined Magnesia), . . Ill 

b. Carbonate. 

b. Magnesle Carbonas (Magnesia Alba), . 113 
Fluid Magnesia, . . . .113 

c. Sulphate, MgO,S0 3 . 

c. *Magnesije Sulphas (Epsom Salt), . 114 

d. *Liquor Magnesle Citratis (Purgative Mi- 

neral Water), 3MgO,(C 12 H 5 H ), . . 114 

XX. Aluminum. 

a. Alumina, . . . . . 115 

a. *Alumen (Alum), . . . .116 

b. ^Alumen Exsiccatum (Burnt Alum), . 117 

XXI. Manganese, . . . . . .117 

Oxides of, . . . . . 117 

XXII. Iron (Ferrum), . . . . .118 

a. *Ferri Filum (Iron Wire), . . 121 

b. *Ferri Ramenta (Iron Filings), . . 121 

c. *Ferri Pulyis (Quevenne's Iron), . 121 

b. Oxide. 

d. *Ferri Oxydum Hydratum, Fe 2 3 ,3HO, . 122 

c. Nitrate. 

e. ^Liquor Ferri Nitratis, Fe 2 3 ,3N0 5 , . 123 

d. Carbonates. 

/. *Ferri Subcarbonas (Precipitated Carbonate 

of Iron), Fe 2 3 ,C0 2 , . . 124 

g. ^Pilul^e Ferri Carbonatis (Yallet's Mass), 

FeO,C0 2 , .... 125 

h. *Mistura Ferri Comp., . . . 126 

i. *Pilulje Ferri Comp., . . . 127 

e. Sulphate, FeO,S0 3 . 

k. *Ferri Sulphas (Copperas, Green Vitriol), 127 

f. Phosphate. 

1. *Ferri Phosphas, 2FeO,HO,P0 5 , . . 128 



CONTENTS. 



Xlll 



G. 


Chloride. 






m. *Tinctura Ferri Chloridi (Muriated Tine 






ture of Iron), Fe 2 Cl 3 , 


129 




n. *Ferrum Ammoniatum, 


129 


H. 


Iodide. 






o. *Ferri Iodidum, . 


130 




p. ^Liquor Ferri Iodidi, 


131 




q. "^Pilul^e Ferri Iodidi, 


131 


I. 


Organic Compounds. 






r. *Ferri et Potasses Tartras, KO,Fe 2 3 ,T, 


132 




s. *Ferri Citras, 


132 




Citrate of Iron and Quinia, 


132 




t. *Ferri Ferrocyanuretum (Prussian Blue), 


133 


XXIIL 


Chromium, ..... 


133 


A. 


Chromic Acid, Cr0 3 , 


134 


B. 


Bichromate of Potassa, KO,2Cr0 3 , 


134 


XXIV. 


Tin, . . . . 


134 




a. *Pulvis Stanni, . 


134 


XXV. 


Bismuth, ..... 


135 




a. *BlSMUTHI SUBNITRAS, 


136 


XXVI. 


Arsenic, . . 


137 




a. * Arsenicum, .... 


137 


A. 


Oxides, ...... 


137 




b. *Acidum Arseniosum, As0 3 , 


138 




Antidotes, .... 


139 




Tests, . .... 


140 


B. 


Iodide, ..... 


143 




c. *Arsenici Iodidum, 


143 


c. 


Arsenite of Potassa. 
d. Liq. Potass^: Arsenitis (Fowler's Solution) 






KO,As0 3 , . 


144 


XXVI] 


'., Antimony, ..... 


145 


A. 


Sulphides, ...... 


146 




a. *Antimonii Sulphuretum, 


146 




b. *Antimonii Sulphuretum Pr^ecipitatum, 


146 


B. 


Tartrate. 






c. *Antimonii et Potassa Tartras, KO,Sb0 3 ,T 


147 



XIV CONTENTS. 

d. *Vinum Antimonii, . . . 148 

e. *Unguentum Antimonii, . . . 148 
Chloride of Antimony (Butter of Antimony), 

Sb,C] 3> . . . . .148 

James' Powder, .... 149 

XXVIII. Lead, 149 

a. Oxide, PbO, . . . . . 150 

a. *Plumbi Oxidum Semivitreum, . . 150 

1. *Emplastrum Plumbi, . . 151 
B. Nitrate. 

b. ^Plumbi Nitras, PbO,N0 5 , . . . 151 
Ledoyen's Disinfecting Fluid, . . 151 

c. Carbonate. 

c. *Plumbi Carbonas, PbO,C0 2 , . .151 

d. -*Unguentum Plumbi Cabbonas, . . 153 
D. Iodide. 

e. ^Plumbi Iodidum, Pbl, . , . 153 
e. Acetates. 

/. *Plumbi Acetas (Sugar of Lead), PbO,A, . 153 

g. *Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis (Goulard's Ex- 
tract), 3PbO,A, . . . .153 

h. ^Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis Dilutus (Lead 

Water), . . . . .154 

k. *Ceratum Plumbi Subacetatis (Goulard's 

Cerate), ..... 154 

XXIX. Copper, ..... 154 

a. ^Sulphate. 

a. *Cupri Sulphas, CuO,S0 3 , . . . 155 

b. Organic Compounds. 

b. *Cupri Subacetas (Verdigris), . . 156 

c. *Ung. Cupri Subacetatis, . . . 156 

d. "^Cuprum Ammoniatum, . . . 157 

XXX. Zinc, 157 

a. *Oxide. 

a. *Zlnci Oxidum, ZnO, .... 158 

b. *Unguentum Zinci Oxidi, . . 158 

b. Carbonate, ZnO,C0 2 , . . . .158 



CONTENTS. XV 

c. *Calamina, .... 158 

d. *Calamina Preparata, . . .159 

e. *Ceratum Calamine (Turner's Cerate), . 159 

/. *ZlNCI CARBONAS PRyECIPITATUS, . . 159 

g. *Ceratum Zinci Carbonatis, . . 159 

c. Sulphate, ZnO,S0 3 . 

h. *Zinci Sulphas (White Vitriol), . . 160 

d. Chloride. 

i. Zinci Chloridum, ZnCl (Butter of Zinc), . 160 

Burnett's Disinfecting Fluid, . . . 160 

e. * Acetate. 

k. *Zinci Acetas, .... 161 

XXXI. ^Mercury (Hydrargyrum), . . . 162 
Off. Preparations. 
a. As Metal. 

a. ^Hydrargyrum, . . . . 163 

b. *Pilulye Hydrargyri (Blue Pills), . 163 

c. *Unguentum Hydrargyri (Blue Ointment), . 163 

d. *Emplastrum Hydrargyri, . . 164 

e. *Hydrarg. cum Creta, . . . 164 
Hydrarg. cum Magnesia, . . . 164 

B. Oxide. 

/. * Hydrargyrum Oxidum Nigrum, HgO, . 164 

g. ^"Hydrarg. Oxidum Rubrum (Red Precipi- 
tate), Hg0 2 , ... 165 
h. *TJnguent. Hydrarg. Oxidi Rubri, . . 165 

c. ^Nitrate. 

i. *Unguentum Hydrargyri Nitratis (Citrine 

Ointment), . . . .166 

Acid Nitrate of Mercury, . . . 166 

d. Sulphides. 

k. ^Hydrarg. Sulphuretum Nigrum (iEthiops 

Mineral), HgS, . . . .166 

1. ^Hydrarg. Sulphuretum Rubrum (Cinna- 

bar), HgS 2 , . . . .167 

e. ^Sulphate. 

m. ^Hydrarg. Sulphas Flavus (Turpeth Mi- 
neral), 3Hg0 2 ,2SO s , . . .167 



XVI CONTENTS. 

f. Chlorides. 

n. *Hydrargyri Chloridum Mite (Calomel), 

HgCl, . . • .168 

o. *Pilul.e Hydrarg. Chlorid. Mitis, . . 169 

p. *Hydrargyri Chloridum Corrosivum (Cor- 
rosive Sublimate), HgCl 2 , . .169 
G. Iodides. 

q. *Hydrargyri Iodidum (Yellow Iodide), Hgl, 170 
r. * Hydrarg. Iodidum Rubrum (Scarlet Iodide), 

Hgl 2 , 171 

s. *Liq. Arsenici et Hydrarg. Iodidi (Dono- 
van's Solution), .... 171 
h. Organic Compounds. 

t. *Hydrargyri Cyanuretum, HgCy 2 , . . 172 

u. * Hydrargyrum Ammoniatum (White Precipi- 
tate), Hg,Cl,NH 2 , . . .172 
v. *Ung. Hydrarg. Ammoniati, . . 173 

XXXII. -Silver (Argentum). 

a. *Argextum, ..... 174 

b. -Abgenti Oxidum, AgO, . . . 174 

c. *Argenti Nitras, AgO,N0 5 , . . . 174 

d. -Argenti Nitras Fusus (Lunar Caustic), 175 

e. Argenti Cyanuretum, . . .175 

XXXIII. Gold, . . . . . . 175 

XXXIV. Platinum, . . . . .176 



PART III.— ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 

General Considerations, . . . . .177 

Classification, ...... 179 

I. Starch Group. 

a. Starch, C 24 H 20 O 20 , .... 180 

Officinal forms of, . . . . 180 

Dextrine, . . . . .181 



CONTENTS. 



XV11 



b. Lignin (Cellulose), C 24 H 20 O 20 

a. Pyroxyline, 

b. Collodion (*Collodium) 9 
Eremacausis, 

c. Tar (*Pix Liquida), 

d. Kreasote (*Creasotum) 9 

e. * TJnguentum Creasoti, 

c. Gum, 

a. * Acacia, C 20 H 22 O 22 , 

b. *Tragacantha 9 C 24 H 20 O 20 , 

d. Sugar, . 

a. Cane Sugar, *Saccharum 9 C^H^O^, 
Formation of Oxalic Acid, 

b. Grape Sugar, Glucose, C 24 H 28 28 , 
Honey (*Mel), Lactin, Mannite, &c, 
Fermentation, . . 

1. Vinous, 

2. Lactic, 

3. Butyric, 

4. Viscous, 
II. Quasi-Elementary Bodies. 

a. Ethyl, C 4 H 5 , . . . . 

a. Ethyl, . . 

b. Oxide of Ethyl, *JEther, C 4 H 5 ,0, 

1. *Spiritus JEtheris Comp. (Hoffman's Ano- 
dyne), .... 

c. Nitrite of the Oxide of Ethyl, C 4 H 5 0,N0 3 , 

Nitrous iEther, 
1. *Spiritus ^Etheris Nitrici, . 

d. Hydrated Oxide of Ethyl, C 4 H 5 0,H0, * Al- 

cohol, 

1. *Vinum Album, Sherry Wine, 

2. * Vinum Rubrum, Port Wine, 

3. *Spiritus Vini Gallici, Brandy. 

e. Aldehyde, C 4 H 3 0,HO, . 
/. Acetic Acid, C 4 H 3 3 HO, . 

Pyroligneous Acid, 



XV111 



CONTENTS 



1. *Acetum [Vinegar), 

2. *AdDUM ACETICUM, 

b. Methyl, C 2 H 3 , . 

a. Methyl, 

b. Oxide of Methyl, C 2 H 3 0, 

c. Hydrated Oxide of Methyl, C 2 H 3 0,HO (Wood 

Spirit), 

d. Formic Acid, C 2 H0 3 ,HO, 

e. Chloroform, C 2 HC1 3 (*Chloroformum), . 
Chloric .^Ether, .... 

c. Amyl, C 10 H n , ..... 

a. Amyl, . . . . . . 

b. Oxide of Amyl, C 10 H n O, . 

c. Hydrated Oxide of Amyl, C 10 H n O,HO, Fusel Oil, 

d. Valerianic Acid, C 10 H 9 O 3 ,HO, 
Valerianates of Zinc and Quinia, 

d. Kakodyl, C 4 H 6 As, . . • . 

Oxide of Kakodyl (Alkarsin), . 

e. Benzyl, C ]4 H 5 2 , .... 

a. Hydride of Benzyl, C 14 H 5 2 H, Oil of Bitter 

Almonds, .... 

* Oleum Amygdalce Amarce, 
Nitro-benzole and Nitro-benzyl, 

b. Hydrated Oxide of Benzyl, C l4 H 5 2 0,HO, 

Benzoic Acid, *Acidum Benzoicum, 

f. Cinnamyl, . 

* Oil of Cinnamon, 
G. Salicyl, 

Salicin, Phloridzin, 
Cyanogen, 

a. Ferrocyanogen, 

b. Ferricyanogen, 

c. Sulphocyanogen, 
III. Organic Acids, 

a. "^Tartaric Acid, 

b. ^Citric Acid, 

c. Malic Acid, 



195 

196 
196 
197 
197 

197 
197 
198 
198 
198 
198 
198 
199 
199 
199 
200 
200 
200 

200 
201 
201 

202 

203 
203 
203 
203 
203 
203 
204 
204 
204 
205 
206 
206 



CONTENTS. 



XIX 



d. ^Tannic Acid, 

e. ^Gallic Acid, . 

IV. Organic Bases. 
a. ^Morphia, 

1. *Jforphice Sulphas, . 

2. *Liq. Morphice Sidphatis, 

3. *3forphice Murias, 

4. *Morphice Acetas, 

B. QUINIA, 

1. Quinice Sulphas, 

C. ClNCHONIA, . 

Quinidia, 

d. ^Strychnia, 

e. Brucia, 

F. *Veratria, . 

Other Alkaloids, 

V. Fats and Oils, . 

a. Glycerin (*Glycerina), . 

1. Fixed Oils, 

b. Stearic Acid, 

c. Margaric Acid, 

d. Oleic Acid, 

2. Volatile Oils, 

VI. Colouring Matters, 

A. Indigo, 

B. Litmus, 

c. ^Madder, 

d. ^Logwood, 

e. ^Cochineal, 

f. Chlorophylle, 

VII. Albumen Group, 
a. Albumen, 
B. Fibrin, 

c. Casein, . 

d. Protein, 

e. Neurine, 

f. Gelatine, 



XX CONTENTS 

G. Kreatin, 

H. Other Proximate Principles, 

i. 

K. 
L. 

M, 
N. 
O. 
P. 



Blood, . 

Chyle and Lymph, . 
Bile, 
Saliva, 
Milk, . 
Gastric Juice, 
Urine, . 

a. Urea, . 

b. Uric Acid, . 
Urinary Calculi, 



224 
225 
225 
227 
227 
227 
228 
228 
229 
229 
230 
231 



ERRATA. 



Page 45, line 15. Before " metals," insert, "certain." 
M 57, last line. For "Iron Pyrites, Bisulphide of Iron,' 

Titriol, Sulphate of Iron." 
" 100, line 21. For "40°," read, "—40°." 
" 156, line 13. For " subacetatis," read " subacetas." 



read, "Green 



MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 



PART I. 

PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 

Definition. Chemistry is the science which investi- 
gates the reaction between the particles of matter. 

Reaction is mutual action. It maybe: 1. Attraction ; 

2. Repulsion. It may take place : 1. Between masses ; Ex. : 
Gravity. 2. Between masses and particles ; Ex.: Sound. 

3. Between particles ; Ex. : Cohesion, adhesion, and che- 
mical affinity. 

I. ATTRACTION. 

May take place (A) between like particles : Cohesion. 
(B) Between unlike particles : (ct) Adhesion ; (b) Chemical 
affinity. 

A. BETWEEN LIKE PARTICLES. 
A. COHESION. 

Attraction of aggregation holds particles together, form- 
ing masses. Its variations give softness, hardness, tena- 
city, brittleness, &c. It is overcome by mechanical force 

2 



14 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

and by heat. The particles of solids cohere most strongly, 
liquids less, and in gases the force is not apparent. When 
the particles of a solid are arranged in a distinct geome- 
trical form, it is called a crystal. Crystals are arranged in 
classes, according to the relative length of their axes and 
the angles formed by the planes of those axes. Crystals 
may be obtained : 1. By deposition from a concentrated 
solution. 2. By sublimation. 3. By fusion and slow cool- 
ing. 4. By the introduction of foreign bodies into the 
solution. Crystalline form often serves to distinguish 
bodies. Bodies possessing the same crystalline form, are 
said to be isomorphous. Crystallization is employed to 
separate substances of different solubility from the same 
solution, the least soluble crystallizing first. 

B. BETWEEN UNLIKE PARTICLES. 
A. ADHESION. 

Adhesion may take place 

1. Between solids : Friction, cements. 

2. Between solids and liquids : wetting, capillary 
attraction. Solution is partly chemical in its nature. 
The point at which a liquid ceases to take up any more of 
a solid is called its point of saturation. A liquid saturated 
with one solid may dissolve another. Heat generally in- 
creases solubility, but in some instances does not affect it, 
or diminishes it. 



PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 15 

3. Between solids and gases. Certain solids, as char- 
coal, will absorb many times their bulk of certain gases, 
and give them out upon the application of heat. 

4. Between liquids — Diffusion. Endosmose and exos- 
mose. Solution. As a general rule one liquid is indefi- 
nitely soluble in another. 

5. Between liquids and gases. Many liquids dissolve 
large quantities of gases, which they give out upon heating; 
Ex. : Solution of Ammonia. 

6. Between gases — Diffusion. Two gases tend to 
mingle, no matter what their density. The law is, that 
the diffusion volume, that is, the tendency of gases to in- 
terchange particles, is inversely as the square root of their 
density. When gases are suffered to diffuse through 
membranes, this law does not hold good, but those gases 
most easily liquefied are found to pass most readily. 

B. CHEMICAL AFFINITY. 

Chemical affinity causes the combination of bodies to 
produce compounds differing in properties from their 
constituents. 

Combination differs from mixture : 1. In a mixture, the 
properties of the components may be recognized; in com- 
bination, not. 2. The components of a mixture may be 
separated by mechanical means ; in combination, only by 
chemical means. 3. Substances may be mixed in any 
proportion ; they combine only in certain definite propor- 



16 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

tions. Chemical combinations cause change : 1, in volume ; 
2, in state ; 3, in color ; 4, in general properties. 

Affinity and contact are necessaries for combination. It 
is opposed by cohesion; favoured by, 1, pulverization, and 
2, solution or liquefaction, which act by overcoming 
cohesion and favouring contact ; 3, by heat ; 4, by light ; 
5, by electric spark; 6, by catalysis or presence; 7, by 
the constituents being in the nascent state. 

Laws oe Combination. 1. All chemical compounds 
are definite in their nature, the ratio of their elements 
being constant. The numbers expressing the relative 
quantities in which elements or compounds combine, are 
termed their equivalents, or combining weights ; and when 
the proportions are estimated by volume, the combining 
volume. 

2. When combination does not occur in the lowest com- 
bining proportion of the constituents, it takes place in a 
multiple of that proportion. 

3. The equivalent of a compound is the sum of the 
equivalents of its constituents. 

Substances containing the same elements in the same 
proportion, and possessing different properties, are said to 
be isomeric. 

When they contain the same elements in the same rela- 
tive proportion, with different properties, they are said to 
be polymeric. 

The union of two elements is termed a binary compound. 
Ex. : Potassa, KO. 



PRINCIPLES OE CHEMISTRY. 17 

The union of two binary compounds gives a ternary 
(Ex. : KO,S0 3 ); and of two ternary, a quaternary com- 
pound. (Ex.: AL 2 3 +KO,S0 3 .) 

Symbols are used to represent elements : the initial letter 
of the Latin name is usually employed. When two elements 
have the same initial, they are distinguished by a second, 
smaller letter. (Ex.: P, Phosphorus ; Pb, Lead; Pt, Plati- 
num.) The symbol represents one equivalent of an ele- 
ment ) a number affixed is the coefficient. (Ex. : Fe, one 
equiv. iron ; Fe 2 , two equiv.) In compounds, the electro- 
negative element or compound is written last, and gives 
the generic name, while the . electro-positive determines 
the specific title. A number placed before a binary com- 
pound is its coefficient. (Ex. : 2 Fe 2 3 , 2 equiv. of the ses- 
quioxide of iron.) When intended to effect a ternary or 
quaternary compound, the whole is included in a parenthe- 
sis, and the number prefixed. (Ex. : 2 (KO,S0 3 ),two eq. sul- 
phate of potassa.) When two binary compounds unite, a 
comma is placed between them. Two ternary compounds are 
united by the sign plus (+)• Organic acids are frequently 
represented by their initial, having over it a dash 
(Acetic acid, A.) 

Nomenclature. The name of a chemical compound 
expresses its composition. Binary compounds generally 
terminate in ide (oxide, hydride, sulphide, &c), except 
when acids. Acids terminate in ous or ic, the latter signi- 

2* 



18 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

fying a higher degree of oxidation than the former. (SO a , 
sulphurous acid ; S0 3 , sulphuric acid.) 

A binary compound, containing one equivalent of each 
of its constituents, is distinguished by the prefix proto 
(MnO, protoxide of manganese; FeS, protosulphide of iron). 
When in the proportion of one to one and a half, or two 
to three, sesqui (Mn a 3 , sesquioxide of manganese). When 
one to two, bi or bin, and three ter (MnO a , binoxide of 
manganese ; SbS 3 , tersulphide of antimony). When less 
than one of the electro-negative element is present, the 
prefix sub is used, more accurately di (Cu a O, sub or 
dioxide of copper). Ternary compounds of an acid, ending 
in ousj terminate in ite ; of an acid in ic, in ate. (Sulphur- 
ous acid, sulphite ; sulphuric, sulphate.) The prefix hypo, 
means less (oxygen) than ; hyper or per, more than ; (C10 4 , 
A^/pochloric acid ; C10 3 , chloric acid ; C10 7 , hyper, or per- 
chloric acid). These prefixes remain when the acid is com- 
bined (KO,C10 7 , perchlorate of potassa). The prefixes 
sub (di or tris), mono, sesqui, bi, ter, quad, express the 
relative quantities of acid and base (3PbO,A, sub (tris) 
acetate of lead; KO,S0 3 , ?)io?*osulphate of potassa; KO, 
2Cr0 3 , bichromate of potassa, &c). 

C. DECOMPOSITION 

Is the separation of the elements of a compound. The 
elements may, 1. Be separated and remain so, or enter 



PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 19 

into new combinations among themselves, — Decomposition 
proper. 2. They may be separated by the agency of a 
chemical substance which combines with one or more of 
them, — Decomposition by superior affinity. 

a. Decomposition proper, takes place in most organic 
substances upon the cessation of vitality ; a certain degree 
of temperature, moisture, and the access of air, are neces- 
sary. It may also take place spontaneously in inorganic 
substances, and is aided by 

1. Light. Example : Decomposition of iodide of silver 
in the daguerreotype. 

2. Heat. Ex. : Decomposition of carbonate of lime. 

3. Electricity. Voltaic decomposition. 

4. Catalysis. Ex. : The decomposition of chlorate of 
potassa favoured by the presence of sand. 

5. Example. Fermentation. 

b. Decomposition by superior affinity. 1, single elec- 
tive affinity ; 2, double elective affinity. 

1. Single elective affinity, is where a substance is pre- 
sented to a compound for which one of the constituents 
of the compound has a greater affinity than it has for the 
other constituents of the compound. Ex. : Water (HO) and 
potassium (K) become potassa (KO) and hydrogen (H), 
which is liberated. Carbonate of potassa and sulphuric 
acid become sulphate of potassa and carbonic acid, which 
is liberated. (K0,C0 2 and S0 3 = KO,S0 3 and CO fl .) 

2. Double elective affinity, is where two substances are 



20 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

presented to each other, the constituents of which from 
superior affinity, on one side or both, mutually interchange. 
Thus, sulphate of potassa and nitrate of baryta become 
sulphate of baryta and nitrate of potassa (KO,S0 3 and 
BaO,N0 5 == BaO,S0 3 and KO,N0 5 ). Decomposition by 
superior affinity is influenced by the same agents as de- 
composition proper; also by 

1. Insolubility. Where the compound of any two of 
the constituents of two given soluble substances is inso- 
luble, that compound will generally be formed upon mix- 
ing them. It is in this fact that most of the chemical 
tests are founded. 

2. Volatility promotes decomposition. If the result of 
the combination of any of the constituents of two sub- 
stances is volatile, decomposition readily takes place upon 
mixing them. 

3. Elasticity, &c. Pressure retards the evolution of 
gas. Carbonate of lime heated, with access of air, is de- 
composed, with the evolution of carbonic acid; heated in 
a close vessel, it is fused, without decomposition. Steam 
passed over heated iron is decomposed, oxide of iron being 
formed and hydrogen evolved ; hydrogen passed over oxide 
of iron forms water, by combining with the oxygen, and 
the iron is reduced. 

D. SPECIFIC GRAVITY. 

The relative weights of bodies are expressed by com- 



PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 21 

paring them with a fixed, assumed standard. This standard 
is, for solids and liquids, water ; for gases, air. 

The specific gravity of a solid is determined on the 
principle that a body immersed in a liquid, displaces a 
volume equal to its own. Hence by a known hydrostatic 
law the immersed body loses weight equal to that of an 
equal bulk of the liquid. In practice, a solid is first 
weighed in air, and then in water, and the loss noted. 
The weight in air divided by the loss of weight in water 
gives the specific gravity. 

The specific gravity of liquids is determined : 1. By 
filling a counterpoised bottle, capable of containing a 
known weight of water, with the liquid, and comparing 
the weight with that of the known weight of water. 

2. By the hydrometer, a graduated rod, with a bulb, so 
adjusted as to float with a mark, or zero, at the surface, in 
water ; of course, above, in heavier liquids, and below, in 
lighter. 

3. By weighing a solid in water, and noting its loss of 
weight, then in the liquid to be examined ; the latter 
divided by the former gives the specific gravity of the 
liquid. 

The specific gravity of gases is determined by admitting 
the gas into an exhausted counterpoised globe, capable of 
containing a known weight of air, and comparing the two. 

e. Electrical and Magnetic Attraction. See 
Electricity and Magnetism. 



22 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

II. REPULSION. 
A. LIGHT. 

Is very little connected with elementary chemistry. 

Theories. Newton's, of Emission ; Huy gen's, or Undu- 
latory. The latter is generally adopted, but the language 
of the former is used from habit and convenience. 

Light proceeds from luminous bodies with great velo- 
city — about 200,000 miles per second — in diverging rays, 
and its intensity is inversely as the square of the distance. 
When a ray of light falls upon a surface, it may be : a, 
reflected; b, transmitted; c, absorbed; or partly re- 
flected, absorbed, or transmitted. 

a. Reflection. The angle of reflection is equal to the 
angle of incidence. If the reflector be a plane surface, 
the rays are reflected in nearly parallel lines ; if concave, 
they are converged ; if convex, diverged. 

b. Transmission. Substances which transmit light are 
said to be transparent or diaphanous. If the ray fall per- 
pendicularly, its direction is not altered. If obliquely, it 
is refracted in passing from a rarer to a denser medium 
towards the perpendicular, and vice versa. The amount 
of refraction depends upon the angle of incidence and the 
nature of the medium. Media whose surfaces are not 
parallel, permanently alter the direction of the ray. 
(JPrisms, lenses?) Ordinary light is compound, and may 
be decomposed by refraction, or reflection. Colour de- 



PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 23 

pends upon the (c) absorption of certain portions of a 
beam of light and reflection of others. Certain of these 
coloured rays possess chemical powers (Actinism), causing 
combination (Ex. : chlorine and hydrogen), or decomposi- 
tion (Ex. : iodide of silver). The art of Photography de- 
pends upon the decomposing power of light. Light may 
be polarized by passing it through certain double refract- 
ing media, and by reflection. Polarized light will no 
longer pass through substances transparent to common 
light. It is influenced by a current of electricity. 

B. HEAT. 

a. Sources. 1, Solar; 2, Chemical; 3, Mechanical. 

b. Communication. 1, Radiation ; 2, Conduction ; 3, 
Convection. 

1. Radiation. The rays pass with great velocity, in 
straight lines, in every direction from the heated body. 
Their intensity is inversely as the square of the distance 
from it. Do not warm gases. Radiation is affected — 1, 
By temperature, being more rapid at high temperatures ; 
2, By the nature of the surface. Colour does not affect it, 
unless the heat be accompanied by light. Radiant heat 
falling upon a surface is : 1, transmitted; 2, absorbed ; 3, 
reflected. Substances which transmit heat are said to be 
transhalent or diathermous. There is no direct connection 
between transhalency and translucency. Surfaces which ra- 
diate freely absorb freely, and vice versa. Colour influences 



24 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

absorption of heat accompanied by light. Reflection is 
inversely as absorption and radiation, and follows the 
laws of light. Heat may be refracted and polarized. 

2. Conduction, Heat passes slowly from particle to 
particle of the conducting body. Solids are the best con- 
ductors, and the metals the best of the solids. The con- 
ducting power of liquids and gases is so slight, as to be 
inappreciable in ordinary experiments. 

3. Convection, or the circulatory process, is that by 
which gases and liquids are heated. Heat is applied 
below, the lowest particles become heated, therefore speci- 
fically lighter, rise, and their place is supplied by colder 
ones from above. A liquid boils when the tension of its 
vapour is sufficient to overcome the cohesion of its parti- 
cles and the pressure upon its surface. Hence the boiling- 
point depends : 1, upon the liquid ; 2, upon the pressure. 
Vaporization, is the conversion of a liquid into vapour 
by boiling. Evaporation, takes place from the surface, 
and at temperatures below the boiling-point. 

c. Capacity for Heat. Different bodies exposed to 
the same source of heat for an equal time, will have dif- 
ferent temperatures ; the body which requires the greater 
heat to elevate its temperature to the same degree, is said 
to have the greater capacity. Specific heat, is the amount 
required to raise an equal weight of a substance through 
one degree of the thermometer, as compared with a 
standard, — water, in the case of solids and liquids, and 



PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 25 

air in that of gases. By increasing the capacity of a body 
for heat, heat is absorbed and temperature lowered, and 
vice versa. When equivalent weights of bodies are sub- 
mitted to experiment, the specific heats are found to be 
nearly identical, or in a simple mathematical ratio. 

d. Latent Heat. Liquids have a greater capacity 
for heat than equal weights of the solids from which they 
are formed j and gases than liquids. Hence during the 
conversion of the solid into a liquid, and liquid into gas, 
heat is absorbed, is no longer sensible to the thermometer, 
and is said to be latent. This is given out when the pro- 
cess is reversed. Water passing from the liquid to the 
solid state (ice), gives out heat enough to raise 142 times 
its weight one degree of Fahrenheit, and vice versa. 
When steam is converted into water, it gives out heat 
enough to raise 967 times its weight one degree, and vice 
versa. Hence the latent heat of water is said to be 142 ; 
of steam, 967, or in round numbers, 1000. 

e. Effects of Heat. 1. On bulk, Expansion; 2. On 
State of Aggregation, Change of State. 

1. Expansion. Bodies expand by heat. Solids are 
the least expansible ; liquids more so ) gases the most. 
Different solids expand unequally, and the same solid 
irregularly ; more for a given increase at high, than at 
low temperatures. Different liquids expand ninequally, 
and the same liquid expands more at high, than at 
low temperatures. All gases may be said to expand 

3 



26 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

alike, and equally at all temperatures. The expansion 
is 4^2 of the bulk of the gas at 32° F. for each degree of 
the thermometer (F.). 

2. Change of State. By heat solids are converted into 
liquids; liquids into vapours. Gases and vapours, when 
remote from their condensing points, may be considered 
identical. The state of aggregation of a body hence de- 
pends upon the temperature, and is not essential. Most 
gases may be made liquid, liquids solid, and vice versa, 
without inherent change. The elasticity or tension of a 
vapour depends : 1, upon pressure; 2, upon temperature; 
when one is increased, cceteris paribus, the other increases, 
and vice versa. 

f. Measurement oe Heat. Sensible heat is mea- 
sured by the expansion of solids, liquids, or gases. The 
two latter comprise thermometers, the former pyrometers. 
Air-thermometers are used for measuring slight changes 
in temperature, — Differential thermometer. Of liquids, 
mercury is most used, on account of its low specific heat, 
and the regularity of its expansion. The scale of thermo- 
meters is graduated by the temperature of melting ice and 
of boiling water, under the ordinary pressure of the at- 
mosphere (30° Bar.). The first point is, in Fahrenheit's 
scale, 32° ; in Reaumur's and the Centigrade, 0° ; the 
second, in. F. 212°, in R. 80°, and C. 100°. In pyro- 
meters, the expansion of a rod of metal is indicated upon 
a dial. Specific and latent heat are measured : 1, by the 



PRINCIPLES OP CHEMISTRV. 27 

method of mixture; 2, by measuring the time required 
for equal weights to cool. 

Medical Applications of Heat. Baths, Maceration, Di- 
gestion, Infusion, Decoction, Preparation of Extracts in 
Vacuo, Water Baths, &c. See Water. 

C. MAGNETISM. 

Magnetic iron ore possesses the property of attracting iron, 
and certain other metals, and of communicating its powers 
to them; a bar of iron or steel thus magnetized is called 
an artificial magnet. Iron receives and loses magnetism 
readily, steel with difficulty. 

A magnet is found to possess attractive powers princi- 
pally at its ends, which are called its poles. 

If a magnet be suspended freely, it assumes a position 
nearly north and south. The end which invariably points 
north, is called the north pole, and vice versa. One pole 
cannot exist without the other ; the fragments of a magnet 
each have poles. The north pole of a second magnet 
repels that of the first, and attracts its south pole, and 
vice versa. 

A piece of iron brought near a magnet has magnetic 
polarity induced in it, and is attracted; the intensity of 
the attraction depends upon the distance, and is not in- 
terfered with by the interposition of neutral substances. 
This second magnet is capable of inducing magnetism in 
a third in a less degree, and so on. The line of direction of 
the magnet, called the magnetic meridian, varies from the 



28 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

true meridian. This deflection, which is not constant, is 
called the variation of the needle. A magnet free to 
move in a vertical plane will have a dip, which varies with 
the latitude. The earth is supposed to be a great magnet, 
and the poles have been discovered, that is, points where 
the dipping needle was vertical, and the horizontal needle 
ceased to traverse. 

Recent researches, with very powerful magnets, have 
shown that all bodies are probably more or less influenced 
by the magnet. Those which are attracted by the magnet 
are termed magnetics or paramagnetics, those which are 
repelled are termed diamagnetics. 

D. ELECTRICITY 

Is supposed to reside in all bodies, and to display its 
effects when its equilibrium is disturbed. This may be : 
1, by Mechanical means : statical electricity, frictional 
electricity, electricity of tension ; 2, by Chemical means : 
galvanism, voltaic electricity, dynamical electricity; 3, 
by Magnetism : magneto-electricity ; by Heat : thermo- 
electricity. Substances which lose electrical excitement 
easily are called conductors ; their opposites, non-conductors 
or electrics. Conductors may be made electrics by insula- 
tion. 

A. STATICAL ELECTRICITY. 

Certain bodies when rubbed attract light bodies ; when 



PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 29 

these have touched, the body is repelled. Bodies attracted 
by excited smooth glass are repelled by excited resin, and 
vice versa. The electricity of excited smooth glass and 
its allies is called positive or vitreous, that of the resin 
class negative or resinous. 

Theories. Franklin's, of a single fluid. Dufay's, of 
two fluids. 

Induction. An excited body induces in those around 
it an opposite electrical state : mutual attraction takes 
place. The equilibrium may be restored by contact, 
through the medium of a conductor, or by the passage of 
the electric sparh. 

Means of accumulating Electricity . Electrical machines, 
Hydro-electric apparatus, Leyden jar, Electropherus. 

Measurement of Electricity. Electrometers, Electro- 
scopes. 

Effects of Electric Sparh. Shock, disruption, ignition. 

Theory of Thunder- Storms. Lightning rods — their 
theory and mode of construction are treated of in detail 
in the works on physics and general chemistry. 

Treatment after Thunderstroke. Cold affusion, frictions, 
stimulants. 

B. dynamic electricity, galvanism. 

"When two dissimilar conducting bodies are plunged into 
a liquid capable of acting unequally upon them, and a 

3* 



30 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

communication is made between them, the more assailable 
metal will be vigorously attacked. The electricity deve- 
loped by the chemical action is constantly given off, in order 
to equalize the electrical condition, which is as constantly 
disturbed, and the so-called electrical current is thus kept 
up. The direction of the current is from the plate most 
acted upon through the liquid to the plate least acted upon, 
and through that plate and its conducting wire, to the 
plate most acted upon. A single arrangement of this kind 
is called a simple voltaic cell ; when several are placed in 
series* it is called a battery. The quantity of electricity 
produced is in proportion to the size of the plates ; its in- 
tensity to their number. 

Various forms of Batteries. DanielPs, Smee's, Grove's, 
Bunsen's, Callan's, Gas batteries, &c. 

Effects of the Electrical Current. — 1. Physical; 
2. Chemical ; 3. Physiological. 

1. Physical — belong more particularly to natural philo- 
sophy, a. Deflagration of metals and of charcoal points 
is produced by a battery of large size and intensity, b. A 
current of electricity passed near a magnetic needle, causes 
it to arrange itself at right angles to the direction of the 
current, and to revolve around it, the direction of the 
revolution depending upon that of the current. On this 
fact is constructed the galvanometer. A current of elec- 
tricity passed in a helix around a bar of soft iron converts 
it into a magnet (electro-magnet), c. When a wire carry- 



PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 31 

ing a current is placed beside another wire not so employed, 
a current in opposite directions to that in the first will be 
perceived in the second wire whenever the contact of the 
first with the battery is made and broken, — induced cur- 
rent. This induced current is capable of inducing cur- 
rents in a third, and this in a fourth wire. 
Construction of Electro-magnetic Machines. 

2. Chemical. Conducting compounds brought between 
the poles (electrodes) of a battery are decomposed, the 
electro-negative element going to the positive pole, that 
connected with the conducting plate, and vice versa. The 
amount of decomposition is in exact relation to the quan- 
tity of electricity passing through the conductors, and to 
the chemical equivalents of the substances liberated from 
combination. 

3. Physiological. Electricity passed through a nerve, 
in the direction of its ramifications, causes contraction ; in 
an opposite direction, less contraction and pain. It excites 
nerves of special sense. It excites muscles to contraction 
when passed across them. Organs are stimulated by it to 
the performance of their proper functions. It promotes 
absorption, and may be made the means of introducing 
medicinal substances into the system directly. Currents 
of electricity have been found to exist in animals, — muco- 
cutaneous current, current from muscular contraction. 
Certain animals, as the gymnotns, have the power of 
giving electric shocks. 



32 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Medical applications of Electricity. Electricity has 
been successfully used in paralysis, both of motor nerves 
and of nerves of general and special sense, rheumatism, 
atony of organs, uterine hemorrhage, tumours, morbid de- 
posits, chorea, neuralgia, in narcotic poisoning, &c. The 
direct current, of considerable quantity and low intensity, 
has been found most successful. In cases of narcotic poi- 
soning a decided shock is requisite, and a powerful induced 
current is preferred. When the current is introduced be- 
neath the surface, by means of fine platinum needles, the 
process is called electro-puncture. 

C. MAGNETO-ELECTRICITY. 

If two wires connected with a galvanometer be attached 
to the soft iron keeper of a powerful magnet, the needle 
will be deflected when the armature is brought in contact 
with the magnet; it soon resumes its original position, how- 
ever, and is deflected equally to the other side, where the 
contact is broken. By means of an apparatus by which 
these contacts are rapidly made and broken, and the cur- 
rent maintained in one direction, all the effects of an elec- 
tric current are produced. Such an apparatus is termed a 
magneto-electric machine. 

D. THERMO-ELECTRICITY. 

When two dissimilar metals are joined, and one ex- 



PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY. 33 

trernity heated, an electrical current is perceived flowing 
from one to the other. A single metal may be made to 
show the same effects by twisting it on its axis and heat- 
ing one end. When a number of thermo-electric pairs are 
united, and their extremities connected with a delicate gal- 
vanometer, an apparatus is produced which may be used to 
measure exceedingly minute differences of temperature. 
This is called a iher mo-multiplier. 



PART II. 

INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 

Note. Elements and Compounds in small capitals are 
important, those in italics less so, those in ordinary type 
unimportant. When a substance has been described, this 
distinction is not observed, unless reference is intended. 

An asterisk prefixed denotes the substance to be offici- 
nal (in the U. S. Pharmacopoeia). 

TABLE OF ELEMENTS, 

WITH THEIR SYMBOLS AND CHEMICAL EQUIVALENTS. 



ELEMENT. 


SYMBOL. 


EQUIVALENT. 


Oxygen, 


o, 


8- 


Hydrogen, 


H, 


1- 


Nitrogen, 


N, 


14- 


Carbon, 


c, 


6- 


Sulphur, 


s, 


16- 


Selenium, 


Se, 


39-57 


Phosphorus, 


P, 


32-02 


Chlorine, 


CI, 


35-5 


Iodine, 


I, 


126-36 


Bromine, 


Br, 


78-26 


Fluorine, 


F, 


18-70 


Boron, 


B, 


10-90 


Silicum, 


Si, 


21-35 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 35 



ELEMENT. 


SYMBOL. 


EQUIVALENT. 


Potassium (Kalium), 


K, 


39-00 


Sodium (Natrium), 


Na, . 


22-97 


Lithium, 


Li, 


643 


Barium, 


Ba, 


68-84 


Strontium, 


Sr, 


43-84 


Calcium, 


Ca, 


20- 


Magnesium, 


Mg, 


12-67 


Aluminum, 


Al, 


13-69 


Glucinum, 


Gl, 


26-50 


Zirconium, 


Zr, 


33-62 


Yttrium, 


Y, 


32-20 


Norium, 


No, 


? 


Erbium, 


E, 


? 


Terbium, 


Tb, 


? 


Thorium, 


Th, 


59-59 


Manganese, 


Mn, 


27-67 


Iron (Ferrum), 


Fe, 


28- 


Chromium , 


Cr, 


28-15 


Vanadium, 


v, 


68-55 


Tungsten, 


W, 


94-64 


Molybdenum, 


Mo, 


47-88 


Tin (Stannum), 


Sn, 


58-82 


Bismuth, 


Bi, 


70-95 


Tellurium, 


Te, 


66-14 


Arsenic, 


As, 


75- 


Antimony (Stibium), 


Sb, 


12903 


Lead (Plumbum), 


Pb, 


103-56 


Copper (Cuprum), 


Cu, 


31-66 


Zinc, 


Zn, 


32-52 



36 



MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 



ELEMENT. 

Uranium, 

Cerium, 

Lantanum, 

Didymium, 

Titanium, 

Tantalum, 

Niobium, 

Mercury, 

Silver (Argentum), 

Gold (Aurum), 

Platinum, 

Palladium, 

Iridium, 

Osmium, 

Rhodium, 

Ruthenium, 

Ilminium, 



Nat. Sources. Air, water, most rocks, most animal 
and vegetable substances. 

Preparation. Heat ^Chlorate of Potassa. is 
given off, and chloride of potassium remains. KO,CL0 5 = 
K,C1, and 6 equiv. 0. 

Modes of collecting , transferring, and storing gases. 

Properties. Colourless, inodorous, tasteless, transparent, 
permanently elastic gas. Specific Gravity 1-106 (Reg.), 
very sparingly soluble in water. Combustibles burn in it 



SYMBOL. 


EQUIVALENT. 




u, 


60- 




Ce, 
Ln, 


46- 
48- I 




D, 


49-6 




Ti, 


24-29 


- t 


Ta, 


92-30 




? 


? 




Hg, 


200- 




Ag, 


108- 




Au, 


98-33 




Pt, 


98-68 




Pd, 


53-27 




Ir, 


98-68 




Os, 


99-56 




R, 


52-11 




Ru, 


52-11 




11, 


60-4 




OXYGEN, 0. 8. 




# 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 37 

with increased brilliancy; the only supporter of animal 
life. 

Physiological Effects. Stimulant — converts venous into 
arterial blood. 

Uses in Medicine. Certain cases of suspended anima- 
tion. 

General Chemical Relations. Has an extensive range 
of powerful affinity — combines with all the other elements 
except Fluorine) forming oxides. When the process is 
slo it is termed oxidation; when rapid, with the evolu- 
tion of light and heat, combustion. Oxides are either 
acid, basic, or neutral. As a general rule, the higher 
oxides are acids; the non-metallic elements form more 
stable acids with oxygen than do the metals ; the oxides 
of the metals are generally basicj and those of the non- 
metallic elements not acid, neutral. See Metals. 

II. HYDROGEN. H. 1. 

Nat. Sources. Water, Organic Substances. 

Prep. By removing 0, from water. Generally by 
adding Zinc to dilute Sulphuric Acid ) Hydrogen is given 
off, and Sulphate of the oxide oe Zinc remains. 
S0 3 HO and Zn = ZnO,S0 3 and H. 

Prop. Colourless, inodorous, tasteless, transparent, 
permanently elastic gas, lightest of all known substances, 
specific gravity 0-0693. Combustible, but extinguishes 

4 



38 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

flame. Mixed with in nearly atomic proportion and 
ignited, explodes violently ; the two gases burned, mixed in 
a jet, give a heat of the highest intensity. (The compound 
blowpipe.) 

Physiological Effects, Inhaled diluted innoxious ; gives 
a peculiar shrillness to the voice. 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Those of the metals which it 
replaces in combinations. Combines directly with certain 
elements to form Hydrides. 

Forms with three combinations : — 

A. *Water or Protoxide of Hydrogen, HO. 

b. Binoxide of H, H0 2 . 

c. Ozone, HOx ?. One form of ozone is considered to 
be an allotropic condition of pure oxygen. 

a. *Water, HO, 9. 

Nat. Sources. Wells, springs, rivers, the atmo- 
sphere, &c. 

Prep. May be made by burning H in 0, or air. Ca- 
vendish's Experiment. 

Properties. Transparent, liquid, without colour, taste, 
or smell. Sp. Gr. 1 ; the assumed standard for all solids 
and liquids. A cubic inch at 60° weighs about 252-2 
grains. It is slightly compressible. At 32° becomes 
converted into a crystalline solid, ice, of a specific gravity 
0*916. At 30 in. Bar. boils at 212° ; becoming converted 
into steam, but it evaporates at all temperatures. Is 
always present in the atmosphere. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 39 

Gen. diem. Relations. A neutral body, frequently 
acting the part of an acid or a base, forming with alkalies 
and acids definite compounds, called Hydrates. The most 
universal of all solvents. 

Impurities. Most usual are carbonate and sulphate of 
lime, and chloride of sodium. If in large proportion, 
the former renders the water hard ; the latter brackish. 
Water of town wells contains nitrates and ammonia. Rain- 
water may contain a little nitric acid, if formed during 
electrical discharges. Water always contains air, and 
frequently carbonic acid in solution. Organic matter is 
also generally present. 

Modes of Softening and Purifying. Boiling, addition 
of muriate of ammonia or lime-water, to remove carbonate 
of lime. Filtration gets rid of solid particles, but distil- 
lation is necessary in order to free it from organic matters 
and certain salts, as the sulphate of lime, and chloride of 
sodium. 

Officinal Forms, a. *Aqua. Common water in its 
purest attainable state. 

b. *Aqua Destillata — Distilled Water. R. Aquw 
cong. x. Distil two pints and reject, then distil 
cong. viii. 

c. Aqvje Medicate — Medicated Waters. Are pre- 
parations composed of water impregnated with medicinal 
substances — generally the essential oils. 

Maceration is the long-continued steeping of a sub- 



40 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

stance in cold water, 60° to 90°. Digestion, the same in 
hot water, 90° to 100° or more. Infusion, the subjecting 
of a vegetable substance for a short time to hot or cold 
water. Decoction, boiling the substance. Lixiviation, 
the separation of a soluble substance from a porous, inso- 
luble one, by pouring water on it. When a substance is 
simply dissolved in water, it is called a solution (liquor). 
When suspended, a mixture (mistura) or emulsion. When 
the solution is made by infusion or decoction, the process 
gives the title to the preparation — Infusum, Decoctum. 

III. NITROGEN. N. 14. 

Nat. Sources. Air, most animal, many vegetable sub- 
stances — the Nitrates. 

Prep. By withdrawing O from air. Generally by 
burning Phosphorus in air over water; Phosphoric 
Acid is produced, which is absorbed by the water and 
nitrogen remains. 

Prop. Colourless, inodorous, tasteless, transparent, 
permanently elastic gas, very sparingly soluble in water ; 
specific gravity 0*971. Does not support combustion nor 
animal life when pure, but is innoxious when diluted; 
properties generally negative. 

Gen. Chem. Pel. Inert; unites directly with few ele- 
ments, and with difficulty. It forms with O, five com- 
pounds. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 41 

B. NO, Protoxide of Nitrogen ; nitrous oxide. 

C. N0 2 , Binoxide of Nitrogen. 

D. N0 3 , Nitrous Acid. 

E. N0 4 , Hyponitric Acid. 

f. *N0 5 , Nitric Acid. 

g. With H — NH 4 , Ammonium. 

Besides these, we have the a. Atmosphere; a mix- 
ture of about 1 vol. of 0, to 4 of N. 

a. The Atmosphere. 

Extent. Is supposed to extend about 45 miles above 
the surface of the earth. 

Density and Weight. Is inversely as the square of the 
distance from the surface. At 2*7 miles one-half; at 5-4 
one-fourth, &c. One hundred cubic inches, at 30 in. (Bar.) 
and 60° (F.), weigh 30-829 grains. 

Pressure. Is due to the weight of a column of air of 
decreasing density 45 miles high ; it is at the surface of 
the earth on an average 15 lbs. to the square inch. This 
is equal to the pressure of a column of water 34 feet, or 
of mercury 30 inches high. The ordinary barometer is a 
column of mercury in an exhausted tube, sealed at its upper 
end, and the lower end of which dips into an open cup con- 
taining mercury. The pressure of the air on the mercury in 
the cup maintains that in the tube at a height which varies 
with that pressure, the variation being indicated by a scale 
affixed near the upper end of the mercurial column. The 
4* 



42 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

elasticity, bulk, and density of the atmosphere obey the 
laws of all gases ; that is, the volume is inversely as the 
pressure ; the density and elastic force are directly as the 
pressure, and inversely as the volume. (Marriott's law.) 

Composition. Contains in 100 parts by volume 79-10 
of N, 20-90 O, with about -0004 of Carbonic Acid; also 
a trace of Ammonia, probably in the state of carbonate, 
carbonetted hydrogen, moisture, animal and vegetable 
emanations, &c. When the moisture exceeds the capacity 
of air to hold it in solution, it is deposited as cloud, fog, 
mist, or rain. The capacity of air for moisture is in- 
creased by heat. The amount of moisture in the air is 
estimated by hygrometers, and by allowing it to deposit 
on a cold surface and noting the temperature at which 
this deposition commences. This is termed the deiv point, 
and is higher in a moist atmosphere, and vice versa. These 
facts are true of all gases. Dew is the moisture depo- 
sited upon the surface of the earth, which has cooled by 
rapid radiation ; clouds prevent this radiation, and the 
deposit of dew. 

Effects of Respiration and Combustion. These pro- 
cesses alike remove the oxygen, and convert it into car- 
bonic acid, the nitrogen remaining unchanged. Plants 
absorb carbonic acid, assimilate the carbon, and give out 
the oxygen. 

Ventilation. The process by which vitiated air is re- 
moved, and its place supplied. It may be spontaneous, 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 43 

due to the levity of vitiated air warmed during the 
change, or by contact with heated bodies, causing it to 
rise, while cooler and purer air enters below. This is the 
process constantly going on, on a grand scale, on the 
earth, causing winds and currents. 2. Forced, when the 
current is aided by heat (chimneys), or mechanical means, 
(fans and steam-jet.) The direction of the flow may be 
upwards or downwards ; the former being the simplest 
and best adapted for small rooms, the latter the most 
equable and economical as regards heat, and applicable to 
large buildings. Care must be taken to diffuse the enter- 
ing air, to avoid currents ; and the regulation of its tem- 
perature, hygrometric condition, and amount, are problems 
which present in practice considerable difficulty in their 
solution. 

b. Protoxide of Nitrogen, NO, 22. 

Prep. By heating nitrate of ammonia, which is re- 
solved into water and NO. NH 4 0, N0 5 =2NO and 
4HO. 

Prop. A colourless, transparent gas ; sweetish taste 
and smell ; has been liquefied ; combustibles burn in it 
with nearly as much vividness as in oxygen ; detonates 
with hydrogen ; specific gravity, 1-52. Distinguished 
from by its greater density and solubility in cold water, 
which dissolves about three-fourths its volume. It is a 
neutral body. 



44 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Physiolog. Effects. Highly exhilarating, or intoxica- 
ting ; hence its common name of " laughing gas." 

c. Binoxide of Nitrogen N0 2 , 30. 

Prep. By deoxidizing Nitric Acid (q. v.), by a 
metal. 

Prop. Colourless ; transparent gas ; slightly soluble in 
water. 

Gen. Chem. Ret. Has a powerful affinity for ; ex- 
posed to the air or oxygen absorbs two eq., becoming 
N0 4 . Is neutral. 

Physiolog. Effects. Causes spasm of the glottis, and 
cannot be inhaled. Corrosive ; stains the skin yellow. 

D. Nitrous Acid, NO s . Unimportant. 

E. Hyponitric Acid, N0 4 , 46. 

Prep. Is formed when N0 3 is exposed to the air, or 

oxygen. 

Prop. Appears as ruddy fumes, of a suffocating 
odour; may be obtained as a volatile liquid, boiling at 82°, 
of a red or orange colour. Solid at — 40°. 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Constitution uncertain. Neutral. 
Powerful oxidizing agent. 

f. *Nitric Acid. N0 5 , 54. 

Prep. Add Sulphuric Acid to Nitrate of Potassa 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 45 

or Soda, N0 5 is given off, and Sulphate of Potassa 
remains. KO,N0 5 , and S0 3 = KO,S0 3 , and N0 5 . May 

be obtained anhydrous by treating dry Nitrate of Sil- 
ver with dry Chlorine. 

Prop. Pure hydrated Nitric Acid is a colourless 
liquid. Specific gravity 1*522; boils about 184°F. ; con- 
geals at — 40° ; fames when exposed to the air from attrac- 
tion of moisture. Exceedingly corrosive, and one of the 
strongest acids. 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Forms Nitrates, all of which are 
soluble, and deflagrate with combustibles from the evolution 
of 0, and of which those of Potassa, the oxides of Iron, 
Lead, Bismuth, and Mercury, are officinal. Powerful oxi- 
dizing agent, losing three equiv. of 0, and becoming N0 2 . 
Added concentrated to a metal, it oxidizes it, and then 
combines with the oxide so formed. Ex. : 3Cu, and 4 N0 5 
= 3 CuO,N0 5 , and N0 2 , binoxide of N being given off. 

Toxicol. Effects. An irritant poison. Antidotes : alka- 
lies, soap, chalk, magnesia, &c. ; mucilaginous and oily 
drinks, and enemata. 

Impurities. Sulphuric Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, Iron, 
Iodine. 

Tests. Bleaches a boiling solution of Sulphate of In- 
digo. Mix with strong Sulphuric Acid, and add strong 
solution of Protosulphate of Iron, a rose or purple 
tint results. Add Hydrochloric Acid in the presence 
of gold, which is then dissolved. Convert into nitrate of 
potassa, and examine properties. 



46 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Officinal Forms, a. *Acidum Nitricum. Nitric 
Acid, of the specific gravity 142. 

b. *Acidum Nitricum Dilutum. Dilute Nitric 
Acid. Acid. Nitric, fgj. Aa. destillatce f§vi. — Dose, 
gtt. xx. to xl. t. d. 

Therajp. Effects. Tonic, astringent ; stimulates the se- 
cretion of the liver; externally caustic, or, when dilute, 
astringent and stimulant ; used in caries to dissolve the 
earthy particles. 

Incompatibles. All alkalies; all earths; the metals 
generally ; the salts of the weaker acids, as the carbonates, 
acetates, chlorides, phosphates, and tartrates. 

G. Ammonium, NH 4 , will be considered under Metals. 

IV. *CARBON. C. 6. 

Nat. Sources. Diamond, graphite, coal, all organic 
substances, the Carbonates. 

Properties. Vary with the form; is dimorphous; inso- 
luble in menstrua, volatilized only in the voltaic arch, in- 
fusible. 

Gen. Chem. Rel. Chemically indifferent at a low tem- 
perature. At high temperature combines with metals, 
forming Carbides. Unites indirectly with other elements. 
At high temperatures affinity for very strong ; will re- 
move it from its most powerful combinations. Hence 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 47 

used as a reducing agent. Forms with 0, Carbonic Oxide, 
CO, Oxalic Acid, C 2 3 , Carbonic Acid, C0 2 , and 
Croconic, Mellitic, and Rhodizonic acids, which are unim- 
portant. Combines indirectly with H to form an exten- 
sive class of hydrocarbons, most of which belong to Or- 
ganic Chemistry. With N it forms Cyanogen, NC 2 , and 
Mellon, N 4 C 6 . 

Officinal Forms, a. *Carbo Ligni. Wood Char- 
coal. 

Prop. Black, shining, brittle, tasteless, inodorous, in- 
soluble, fixed, solid. Absorbs many times its own volume 
of certain gases. Hygroscopic. Causes rapid oxidation 
and decomposition of animal substances imbedded in it, 
without offensive smell. 

Therap. Effects. Antiseptic, absorbent, tonic. 

b. *Carbo Animalis. Animal Charcoal. Charcoal 
prepared from bones. This contains Carbonate and Phos- 
phate of Lime, which, when removed by digestion with 
Hydrochloric Acid, leave us the c. *Carbo Animalis 
Purificatus— Purified Animal Charcoal. 

Prop. A brownish-black powder, which should give 
no trace of lime when treated with Hydrochloric Acid. 

Gen. Chem. Ret. Possesses the remarkable property 
of decolourizing organic substances, also of removing most 
organic and many inorganic substances from solution. 
Given with or soon after the organic poisons, prevents their 



48 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

action. Hence may be valuable in certain cases, as an 
Antidote. 

Therap. Effects. Those of Carbo Ligni. 

A. Carbonic Oxide, CO, 14. 

Prep. Formed when Carbon is burned with an insuffi- 
cient supply of oxygen. Also by adding Oil of Vitriol 
(HO,S0 3 ) to Oxalic Acid, which is thereby deprived of 
its water, and splits up into CO and CO a (CO + C0 2 = 
C 2 3 ), which latter may be absorbed by caustic lime or 
potassa. 

Prop. Eesembles in physical properties Nitrogen; 
specific gravity, 0*968 ; burns in air with a pale blue flame, 
forming C0 2 ; very sparingly soluble in water. 

Gen. Cliem. Pel. Neutral ; may be considered as the 
radical of a series of compounds, mostly organic. 

Pliysiolog. Effects. Fatal to life, even when diluted, 
producing coma; frequently escapes from stoves. Treat- 
ment, by cold affusion, frictions, electricity, and other 
general measures. 

b. Oxalic Acid, HO,C 2 3 . 

Nat. Sources. Certain plants (Oxalis, Rumex). 

Prep. Action of N0 3 upon Sugar. 

Prop. Long, four-sided oblique prisms, of an acid taste ; 
resembles in appearance *Sulphate of Magnesia, for 
which it is often taken by mistake ; contains 3 eq. water, two 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY." 49 

of crystallization, which may be driven off by heat, and one 
constitutional, which if removed causes decomposition ; 
exists therefore only in combination with a base ; soluble 
in 8 parts water, at 59° F., and its weight of boiling water. 

Gen. Chem. Rel. Forms Oxalates. 

Test. Lime, a white precipitate. 

Toxicol. Effects. Irritant Poison. 

Antidote. Lime. (Chalk, plaster.) 

c. Carbonic Acid, C0 2 , 22. 

Nat. Sources. The atmosphere, native Carbonates; 
is formed during respiration and combustion. 

Prep. Decompose a Carbonate ; add Hydrochloric Acid 
to fragments of chalk or marble (CaO,C0 2 and HC1 = HO, 
CaCl and C0 3 ). 

Prop. Colourless, transparent, tasteless, inodorous gas ; 
specific gravity, 1-529 ; extinguishes flame. Cold water 
dissolves its own volume. Imparts a pungent, agreeable 
taste to fermented drinks. May be liquefied by pressure, 
forming a colourless liquid of a specific gravity, 0*83 ; and 
of great elastic force. At — 72°, becomes solid. 

Gen. Chem. Rel. An acid ; reddens litmus, and forms 
salts, the Carbonates, of which those of Potassa, Soda, 
Lime , Magnesia, Iron, Lead, and Zinc, are officinal. 
From its volatile nature these are easily decomposed by 
heat and acids. The carbonates of the strong alkalies 
have an alkaline reaction. 

5 



50 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Toxicol. Effects. When pure, causes instant suffocation; 
when largely diluted, poisonous, producing narcotic symp- 
toms. Treatment, that laid down under CO. To remove 
it from wells and pits, where it has accumulated, an up- 
ward draught should be created by a windsail or fire, and 
the gas absorbed and driven out by throwing down water, 
or preferably milk of lime. 

Off. Prep. a. *Aqua Acidi Carbonici — Carbonic 
Acid Water. Mineral Water. Water impregnated 
with five times its bulk of C0 3 . 

Prop. A sparkling liquid, of an agreeable, pungent, 
acidulous taste ; reddens litmus. 

Impurities. Lead and Copper, derived from the 
u fountain." 

Therap. Effects. Used in fevers, vomiting, &c, and as 
a vehicle for nauseous compounds. 

d. Cyanogen, NC 2 (Cy), 27. 

Prep. Heat Bicyanide of Mercury. 

Prop. Colourless gas; specific gravity, 1*806; has a 
peculiar odour, resembling peach kernels; burns with a 
peach-coloured flame, generating C0 2 , and liberating N. 
Water dissolves 4 or 5 volumes. May by cold and pres- 
sure be reduced to a thin, colourless, transparent liquid. 

Gen. Chem. Pel. A quasi elementary substance, re- 
sembling in its chemical relations the Halogens. Forms 
with Oxygen, Cyanic Acid, CyO, Fulminic Acid, Cy 2 2 , 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 51 

and Cyanuric Acid, Cy 3 3 ; with the metals ; Cyanides, of 
which those of Potassium, Silver, and Mercury are offici- 
nal; and with Hydrogen, the ^Hydrocyanic Acid. 

a. ^Hydrocyanic Acid, HCy, 28. 

Prep, Anhydrous. By passing a current of HS over 
Bicyanide of Mercury. (Vauquelin.) Other processes 
are found in the works on General Chemistry. 

Prop. Colourless, transparent, inflammable liquid; very 
volatile; boils at 80°; congeals at 5°; specific gravity, 
0*697 ; taste cooling and burning ; flavour of bitter 
almonds ; odour peculiar, and produces headache and gid- 
diness ; dissolves readily in water and alcohol. A violent 
poison. Readily decomposes. 

Gen. Chem. Eel. A feeble acid; forms with bases 
Cyanides and water. See Chlorine. 

Officinal Forms. 1. *Acidum Hydrocyanicum Di- 
ltjtum — ^Dilute Hydrocyanic Acid. 

Prep. 1. By the action of dilute Sulphuric Acid 
upon Ferrocyanide of Potassium. This is the first 
process of the U. S. P., and adopted upon the large scale. 
The theory of the process is complicated. 

2. By adding dilute Hydrochloric Acid to Cyanide 
of Silver — Chloride of Silver and dilute Hydrocya- 
nic Acid result. This is the process of the U. S. P. 
for extemporaneous preparation of the dilute acid : 1. 
Acid. Muriat. gr. xli; 2. Argent. Cyanid. gr. lss. ; 



52 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

3. Aq. Dest. f giss. ; mix 1 with 3, and add 2 ; when the pre- 
cipitate has subsided, pour off the separated liquor for use. 

Properties, dec. The medicinal acid contains 2 per 
cent, of real acid, and possesses the same general proper- 
ties in a less degree. It is prone to decomposition, and 
should be kept in blackened, well-stopped bottles. It may 
contain Sulphuric and Muriatic Acids, which do not 
injure it, except so far as they vary the strength. 

Therap. Effects. Sedative, antispasmodic; given in 
pertussis, phthisis, chronic bronchitis, aneurism, hypertro- 
phy of the heart, &c. ; also to allay nausea, vomiting, and 
gastralgia ; externally as a lotion to allay itching in skin 
diseases. 

Dose of the Medicinal Acid — 1 to 5 drops, three times 
a day. Scheele's acid, which contains 5 per cent., should 
never be used. 

Incompatilles. Alkalies, Nitrate of Silver, Salts of 
Iron, Copper, and Mercury. *Tinctura Opii Campho- 
RATA. {Paregoric?) 

Toxicological Prop. In large dose kills; one and a 
half drops of the Anhydrous Acid, equal to f 3vi. of the 
medicinal acid, having proved fatal to an adult. It is 
rapidly absorbed into the circulation, so that antidotes can 
rarely be applied. The best are Chlorine and Ammonia, 
given internally and cautiously inhaled. General treat- 
ment is most to be relied upon, and the most efficient is 
the cold douche to the spine. Salts of the Sesquioxide of 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 53 

Iron, followed by alkaline carbonates, have been proposed 
as antidotes. Insoluble ferrocyanide of iron (Prussian 
Blue) being formed. 

Tests. Must be applied early, from the volatile and 
unstable nature of the poison. The principal are : 1. 
Its peculiar odour. 2. Scheele's. Add to the suspected 
liquid a few drops of a solution of the Sulphate of the 
Protoxide of Iron, and an excess of Caustic Potassa; 
expose the whole to the air for 15 minutes, with agitation, 
then add Hydrochloric Acid in excess ; this dissolves 
the oxide of iron, and if HCy be present, leaves an inso- 
luble blue powder, the Prussian Blue. 3. Liebig's 
(modified by Taylor}. Put the suspected liquid into a 
watch-glass, over which invert another, containing a drop 
of Biliydrosidpliate of Ammonia. Heat the lower glass, 
when, if HCy be present, it is disengaged, combines with 
the Biliydrosulphate of Ammonia to produce Sulplw cyan ate 
of Ammonia. Bemove the upper glass, evaporate to dryness, 
and add a drop of the solution of the Sesquioxide of 
Iron, when a deep blood-red colour is produced, owing to 
the formation of the SulpJiocyanide of Iron. This is a 
very delicate test. Sulphocyanogen exists in human saliva. 

e. Hydrocarbons. 

The members of this extensive and important group 
all belong, strictly speaking, to Organic Chemistry. The 
gases containing C and H, are generally admitted into in- 

5* 



54 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

organic chemistry. These are C 2 H 4 , marsh gas, and C 4 H 4 , 
defiant gas. Ordinary illuminating gas, is a mixture of 
these with certain other gases. When burned, the H 
unites with the of the atmosphere, while the C is pre- 
cipitated in fine particles, which become incandescent, 
giving the luminous character to the flame. If the be 
in excess, the gas is burned without decomposition, and 
the flame is blue and not luminous. 

Nature and Structure of Flame. The term flame, is 
applied to volatile matter in a state of ignition. Solid 
substances, heated so as to become luminous, are said to 
be incandescent. Ordinary flame is hollow. The inte- 
rior consists of volatile matter, strongly heated- there is 
next a luminous layer or cone, and outside a yellow flame, 
of feeble light but great heat, where chemical union is 
most entire. When urged by the blow-pipe, the flame is 
elongated, and the heat increased. The outer flame is 
called the oxidizing flame, the inner one the reducing 
flame, from their respective effects. 

Flame will not pass through long tubes, if of small 
diameter, but the combustible matter becomes cooled 
below the point necessary for combustion. Wire gauze, 
which may be considered as a number of very short tubes 
of small diameter, possesses the same property. A lamp, 
covered with wire gauze, may be carried into an inflam- 
mable gaseous mixture, without causing combustion, — 
the safety lamp. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 55 



V. *SULPHUR. S. 16. 

Nat. Sources. Native near volcanoes ; the native Sul- 
phides and Sulphates ; certain organic substances. 

Prep. Obtained by sublimation from its earthy impu- 
rities. If the vapour be condensed in a liquid state, it is 
cast into rolls, forming roll sulphur, or brimstone. If con- 
densed in a cold vessel, it is in fine crystals, known as 
flowers of sulphur, — the *Sulphur of the U. S. P. 

Prop. Pale lemon-yellow, brittle, volatile, insipid, 
emitting a peculiar odour when rubbed or heated ; soluble 
in Oil of Turpentine, Bisulphide of Carbon, in solu- 
tions of the Alkalies, but not in water or alcohol. 
Fuses at 234°, boils at 788°, and may be distilled without 
change; takes fire below boiling-point, giving off suffoca- 
ting fumes of Sulphurous Acid (S0 2 ). Is dimorphous. 
Specific gravity varies with form of crystal; is about 2. 

Allotropic Modifications. About its melting-point forms 
a clear, thin, amber-coloured liquid, fluid as water ; as the 
temperature is raised becomes thicker; at about 480°, is 
dark-brown, viscid, and tenacious, without increase of 
density ; in this state, if thrown into water, forms a soft, 
transparent, tenacious solid, which retains its properties for 
some time, but returns finally to the original hard, opaque, 
yellow condition. From 500° to its boiling-point, 788°, 
it begins to become thin again, and if allowed to cool, 
returns through the same conditions. 



56 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Gen. Chem. Eel., resembles oxygen very closely. 
Forms Sulphides, which are analogous to Oxides. It 
unites with 0, to form seven compounds, of which only 
two will be considered, — Sulphurous Acid, S0 2 , and *Sul- 
phuric Acid, S0 3 . With H it forms Hydrosulphuric 
Acid, HS, and Bisulphide of H, HS 2 ; with N, the Sul- 
phide of N, NS 3 ; with C, the Bisulphide of Carbon, CS 2 . 

Officinal Forms, a. *Sulphur — Sublimed Sulphur. 
This contains often a little Sulphuric Acid, which may 
be removed by washing, constituting the 

b. *Sulphur Lotum — Washed Sulphur. Its wash- 
ings with boiling water should not affect blue litmus 
paper. 

c. *Sulphur Pr^cipitatum — Precipitated Sul- 
phur, Lac Sulphuris, Milk of Sulphur. Is made by 
adding Hydrochloric Acid to Sulphide of Calcium. 

Prop. Pale, or yellowish-green, insipid powder, having 
a harsh feel when rubbed, and a peculiar odour. Does 
not differ essentially from ordinary sulphur; probably 
contains a portion of hydrosulphuric acid. 

Adulterations, may contain free acid ; but more com- 
monly sulphate of lime, from the use of sulphuric acid in 
its preparation. Readily detected by exposure to heat, 
which drives off the volatile sulphur, leaving the fixed 
sulphate of lime. 

d. *Unguentum Sulphuris — Sulphur Ointment. 
R. Sulphuris Ibj ; Adipis Ibij. M. 

e. *Unguentum Sulphuris Compositum — Com- 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 57 

pound Sulphur Ointment. R. Sulphuris §j ; Hydrarg. 
Amnion. , Acid. Benzoic aa 3j ; 01. Bergami, Acid. Sul- 
phuric aa f 5J \ Potass. Nitrat. 3ij ; Adipis Ifoss. Melt 
the lard at a moderate heat, and stir in the other ingre- 
dients until thoroughly mixed. 

Med. Effects. Laxative, diaphoretic, alterative. Sup- 
posed to be rendered soluble by the soda of the bile. 
Used in constipation, chronic rheumatism, and gout, 
asthma, &c. Externally in ointment or fumigation, in 
cutaneous diseases, chronic rheumatism, &c. Dose, one 
to three drachms. 

A. Sulphurous Acid , SO 2, 32. 

Prep. Formed when S is burned in air, or 0. Made 
by deoxidizing Sulphuric Acid. 

Prop. Transparent, colourless gas, of a suffocating 
odour ; extinguishes flame ; is irrespirable ; specific gravity, 
2-247. May be obtained liquid by cold, in the form of a 
very volatile mobile liquid, of a specific gravity, 1*45; boil- 
ing at 14°. Water dissolves 50 volumes of this gas. It 
reddens litmus and bleaches. The colours may be restored 
by an alkali. 

Gen. Cliem. Pel. Forms Sulphites. 

Therapeutic Application. Used as a vapour bath in 
treatment of skin diseases, rheumatism, &c. 

b. ^Sulphuric Acid, S0 3 , 40. 

Prep. 1. Distilling iron pyrites, bisulphide of iron, 



58 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

which gives the fuming Kordhausen acid, HO, 2 S0 3 . Not 
used in medicine. 

2. By introducing into a leaden chamber, in which is a 
stratum of water, Hyponitric and Sulphurous Acids. 
Several explanations of the theory of the process are 
given. It mainly depends upon the reduction of the Hypo- 
nitric Acid, N0 4 , to Binoxide of Nitrogen, N0 2 , by which 
two equivalents of Sulphurous Acid, S0 3 , are oxidized to 
two equivalents of Sulphuric Acid, S0 3 . By contact with 
the air N0 3 becomes again N0 4 , and thus the process con- 
tinues as long as the supply of air and gases is kept up. 

Prop, It may be obtained anhydrous by distilling the 
Nordhausen acid. It is then in solid fibres, resembling 
asbestos, which are tenacious, and may be warmed with 
the fingers like wax; specific gravity, 1-97. Has a pow- 
erful attraction for moisture ; hisses when thrown into 
water. Has no acid properties. 

The Hydrated Acid (Oil of Vitriol, HO,S0 3 ) is a clear, 
colourless, oily fluid; specific gravity, 1-845 ; most power- 
ful of the acids ; is highly corrosive ; chars and destroys 
vegetable and animal tissues. Absorbs water greedily, 
and must therefore be kept in well-stopped bottles. 

Gen. Chem. Rel. Forms an extensive series of stable 
salts : the Sulphates, of which those of Potassa, Soda, 
Magnesia, the oxides of Iron, Zinc, Copper, and Mercury, 
are officinal. Acts on metals in two ways : 1, when dilute, 
on those easily oxidized, by the decomposition of water 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 59 

and evolution of Hydrogen (q. v.) ; 2. When concentrated, 
on those less easily oxidized, by the decomposition of one 
equiv. of the acid, which yields an equiv. of to the metal, 
becoming Sulphurous Acid, a second equiv. of the acid 
uniting with the oxide thus formed, (Cu, and 2S0 3 = 
CuO,S0 3 and SO a .) 

Test. Gives with salts of Baryta a white precipitate, 
insoluble in boiling, N0 5 . 

Officinal Forms, a. *Acidum Sulphtjricum — Sul- 
phuric Acid. Sulphuric Acid of the specific gravity 1-845. 

This is apt to contain Lead, Nitre, Sulphate op 
Potassa, Nitrous Acid, and more rarely Arsenic and 
Tin, for which the Tests are given under the respective 
substances. 

b. *Acidum Sulphuricum Dilutum — Dilute Sulphuric 
Acid. R. Acid. Sulph. f gi. ; Aa. Destill. f^xii. — Dose, 
gtt. x. to xxx. 

c. *Acidum Sulphuricum Aromaticum — Aromatic 
Sulphuric Acid. Elixir of Vitriol. 

Acid. Sulph. f giiiss. ) Zingiber, pulv. crass, f §i. ; Cin- 
nam. pulv. crass, giss. ; Alcohol, q. s. Add the acid gradu- 
ally to Oj. of the alcohol, and allow the liquor to cool; 
mix the ginger and cinnamon, put them into a percolator, 
pour on the alcohol gradually until Oj. of filtered liquor 
is obtained. Lastly, mix the diluted acid and tincture. 
Dose, gtt. x. to xxx. 



60 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Toxicolog. Prop. Corrosive poison. Antidotes. Al- 
kalies, soap, magnesia, chalk; mucilaginous and oleagi- 
nous drinks, and enemata \ milk. Water should be spar- 
ingly used, on account of the elevation of temperature pro- 
duced. 

Med. Effects. Tonic, astringent, refrigerant. Used in 
low fevers, chronic and choleraic diarrhoeas, chronic ca- 
tarrhs, night sweats, purpura, hemorrhages, &c. Externally, 
concentrated as a caustic, mixed with saffron, Yelpeau's 
caustic. Dilute, as an astringent wash. 

In compatibles. All alkalies and earths; the metals 
generally; the salts of the weaker acids, as Carbonic, Ni- 
tric, Hydrochloric, Acetic, Phosphoric, and Tartaric. 

c. Hydrosulphuric Acid, HS, IT. (Sulphuretted Hy- 
drogen.) 

Nat. Sources. Certain mineral springs. (Sulphur 
springs.) 

Prep. Sulphur does not unite directly with Hydrogen ; 
but does when both are in the nascent state. Generally 
made by adding dilute S0 3 to Sulphide of Irox. Sul- 
phate of the protoxide of Iron is formed, and HS given 
off. (FeSandHO,S0 3 = FeO,S0 3 andHS.) 

Prop. Colourless gas, strong offensive odour ; specific 
gravity, 1*191 j burns with pale blue flame, producing 
water and S0 3 . Water at 640 dissolves 2 i volumes; the 
solution becomes milky on exposure to the air from the pre- 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 61 

cipitation of the sulphur. May be liquefied by cold and 
pressure, and at — 122° solidifies. 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Has a weak acid reaction ; precipi- 
tates many metals from solution as Sulphides. Several 
of these are characteristic. Hence its value as a test. 

Toxicolog. Prop. Inhaled pure, causes syncope and 
death ; when dilute, produces narcotic effects ; arises from 
drains and privies ; is a frequent product of decomposition. 
The antidote is Chlorine, inhaled cautiously, the gene- 
ral means of treating cases of narcotic poison, being em- 
ployed at the same time. Is decomposed by the so-called 
disinfectants, as Chlorine, Sulphate of Iron, Nitrate 
of Lead, Chloride of Zinc, and Sulphate of Manganese. 

Therap. Effects. Generally those of sulphur. 

d. Bisulphide of Carbon, CS a . 

Prep. Is formed by passing the vapour of S, over char- 
coal at a red heat. 

Prop. Is a volatile, very mobile liquid; of an offen- 
sive odour; insoluble in water; specific gravity 1*272; 
highly inflammable; of high refractive, and low disper- 
sive power. 

Uses. Is used to dissolve Sulphur, Phosphorus, &c; 
from the great tension of its vapour, has been proposed as 
a substitute for steam as a motor. 

6 



62 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 



VI. PHOSPHORUS. P. 32-02. 

Nat. Sources. Organic substances; the native Phos- 
phates. 

Prep. On the large scale from bones, in which it 
exists as Phosphate op Lime (8 CaO, 3P0 5 ), which are : 
1. Calcined, to remove animal matter; 2. Digested with 
S0 3 , which combines with most of the lime, liberating 
the greater part of the Phosphoric Acid (P0 5 ). This is 
heated in a close iron retort with Charcoal, which com- 
bines with the of the Phosplioric Acid, forming CO, 
leaving the Phosphorus to distil over.* 

Prop. A soft, translucent solid, of a waxy appearance; 
is tasteless; has an alliaceous odour. When perfectly 
pure, is colourless ; ordinarily has a reddish tint, which 
increases with exposure to light ; specific gravity 1*77. It 
melts at 108°, boils at 550°, giving a colourless vapour. 
May be distilled unchanged. Emits fumes in the air 
(Phosphorous Acid, P0 3 ), which in the dark are luminous; 
this slow combustion may be prevented by the presence 
of certain vapours, as JEther, Turpentine, and Naphtha. 
Very inflammable, taking fire below 140° ; burns with the 
evolution of copious white fumes of Phosphoric Acid 
(P0 5 ). It is insoluble in water and alcohol ; soluble in 

* The true process and theory are a little more complicated, owing to the 
existence of superphosphate of lime. The above gives the essential steps of 
the process and changes. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 63 

the fixed and volatile oils, in ^Ether, and Bisulphide of 
Carbon. 

Allotropic Modification. By exposing Phosphorus for 
a long time to light, or for a shorter time to a temperature 
between 464°-482°, it assumes a red colour, thickens, 
and becomes opaque. This Amorphous Phosphorus 
(Schroeter), is unaltered in the air; specific gravity 
1*964; insoluble in Bisulphide of Carbon; takes fire 
only at a high temperature. Heated to the boiling-point, 
in an indifferent gas, becomes again common Phosphorus. 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Except for 0, aflinity not very marked. 
Forms four oxides: 1. Oxide of P., P 3 0; Hypophos- 
phorus Acid, PO ; Phosphorous Acid, P0 3 ; Phosphoric 
Acid, P0 5 . With H three compounds : Solid Hydride of 
P., P 2 H ; Liquid Hydride P., PH 3 ; and Phosphuretted 
Hydrogen Gas, PH 3 . Also with N and S, unimportant 
compounds. 

lied, and Tox. Prop. In large dose, an irritant poison 
of great energy. No direct antidote is known. Eva- 
cuate the stomach ; give large draughts of cold water, 
containing magnesia in suspension — one part magnesia 
and eight of chlorine water (Duflos). 

Workmen exposed to its vapours are liable to necrosis, 
particularly of the lower jaw-bone. In medicinal doses, 
stimulant, diuretic, and aphrodisiac. Is given in solution 
in oil; dose, -£$ to ^ of a grain. Is not officinal in the 
U. S. P. 



64 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

a. Phosphoric Acid, P0 5 . 

Prep. Formed Anhydrous, when Phosphorus is 
burned in the dry air or 0. 

Prop. A snow-like, uncrystallized mass, resembling 
solid CO a . Deliquescent. Hisses on contact of water, 
forming a hydrate. Is fixed. 

Gen. Chem. Pel. Remarkable as forming three dis- 
tinct classes of salts, which contain respectively one, two, 
and three equivalents of water, or a base. They are dis- 
tinguished as the Monobasic Phosphate of Water, or Pro- 
tohydrate of P0 5 (Glacial Phosphoric Acid), HO,P0 5 ; 
Bibasic Phosphate of Water, or Deuto-Hydrate of P0 5 
(Pyrophosphoric Acid), 2HO,P0 5 ; and Tribasic Phos- 
phate of Water, Terhydrate of P0 5 , 3H0, P0 5 . 
The ordinary phosphates belong to the latter class. The 
Monohydrated Acid, procured by the action of N0 5 on 
P, is officinal only in the Edinburgh Ph. Phosphoric 
Acid is a powerful acid, of an intensely sour taste ; 
reddens litmus; is not poisonous. The Phosphates of 
Soda, and of the Protoxide of Iron, are officinal. 

Med. Effects. Refrigerant, tonic. Used in Diabetes, 
Phosphatic deposits, &c. 

Incompatibles. Alkalies, Salts of Iron, Lead, and 
Silver; also those of the weaker acids, as Carbonates and 
Acetates. 

B. Hydrides of Phosphorus, 

Have already been enumerated — are not employed in 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 65 

Medicine. A mixture of PH 3 and PH 3 , is known as 
Phosphuretted Hydrogen ; and is remarkable for its pro- 
perty of inflaming spontaneously upon the contact of air, 
producing P0 5 . It has an alliaceous odour, and is inju- 
rious when breathed. 



VII. CHLORINE. CI. 35-5. 

Nat. Sources. Common salt; the native Chlorides. 

Prep. By gently heating Binoxide of Manganese 
(Mn0 2 ), with ^Hydrochloric Acid (HC1), Chloride 
of Manganese is formed, and Chlorine given off (Mn0 2 , 
and 2HCl = MnCl,HO, and CI). 

Prop. A dense gas, specific gravity, 2470; of a 
greenish-yellow colour and peculiar suffocating odour. By 
pressure is converted into a limpid liquid, of a bright yel- 
low colour; specific gravity, 1-33. Supports combustion. 
Water at 60° dissolves twice its volume of this gas, ac- 
quiring a yellow colour, and the properties of the gas. 
(The Chlorine Liquor of the Dub. Ph.) This solution 
soon decomposes on exposure to the light, the products 
being Hydrochloric Acid, and free 0. 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Forms with Iodine, Bromine, and 
Fluorine, a group — the Halogen bodies. These are 
characterized by a feeble affinity for 0, and a powerful one 
for H and the metals, with which they combine directly. 

6* 



66 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

"With H they form acids, the Hydracids, which when 
added to a base give their H to the of the base to form 
water while the Halogen combines directly with the metal 
to form the Haloid salt (Ex.: KO,HCl = HO and KC1). 
Distinguished from the acids formed with 0, which always 
required in the base, forming Amphide Salts (Ex. : KO, 
S0 3 ). Most of the Haloid Salts are soluble. 

Chlorine does not unite directly with 0, but forms 
indirectly five compounds : Hi/pochlorous Acid, CIO } Chlo- 
rous Acid, C10 3 ; Hypochloric Acid, C10 4 ; Chloric Acid, 
C10 5 ; Perchloric Acid, C10 7 . With H it forms the im- 
portant ^Hydrochloric, or Muriatic Acid, HC1. It 
forms, also, compounds with N, S n P. With the metals it 
forms the extensive and important class of Chlorides, 
of which those of Sodium, Barium, Calcium, Iron, Zinc, 
Antimony, and Mercury, are officinal. 

Chlorine possesses bleaching and disinfecting (?) powers. 
These depend on its affinity for H. When a moistened 
vegetable colour is submitted to its influence, it unites 
with the H of the water, to form HC1, while the nascent 
bleaches. When it comes in contact with HS,PH 3 , 
NH 4 0, the usual constituents of a bad odour, it decom- 
poses them by combining with their H. 

Tests. When free, its odour and bleaching powers; 
when free and as the soluble Chlorides, gives with Ni- 
trate of Silver, a ichite precipitate, Chloride of Silver, 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 67 

which blackens on exposure to light, is soluble in ammo- 
nia (NH 4 0), but not in cold or boiling N0 5 . 

Med. and Tox. Effects. Inhaled pure, causes spasm of 
the glottis, and suffocation ; even when diluted, irritates 
the nasal, bronchial, and pulmonary mucous membrane, 
causing coughing, oppression, haemoptysis, &c. Relief is 
obtained by cautiously inhaling Ammonia or iEther. 

Largely diluted, is inhaled as a stimulant in aphonia, 
chronic bronchitis, and phthisis. Used largely as a deter- 
gent and antiseptic wash, and for fumigations of foul locali- 
ties. Is given internally in Scarlatina, Typhus, &c. 

Generally disengaged in practice from its combination 
with Lime or Soda, — *Calx Chlorinata, *Soda Chlo- 

RINATA. 

Incompatibles. Ammonia, Nitrate of Silver; the 
metals generally. 

a. Chloric Acid, C10 5 . 

Prep. Not isolable ; exists only in combination with 
water or a base. By passing a current of CI into a solu- 
tion of caustic Potassa (KO,HO), the Chlorate of Po- 
tassa is formed, Chloride of Potassium, KC1, remaining 
in solution. (6 CI and 6KO = KO,C10 5 and 5KC1.) 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Forms Chlorates, of which that of 
Potassa is officinal. They are all soluble, and deflagrate 
and detonate with combustibles. 



05 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

b. ^Hydrochloric Acid (Muriatic Acid), HC1, 36-5. 

Prep. Add Oil of Vitriol (HO,S0 3 ) to common salt 
(NaCl). Hydrochloric Acid and ^Sulphate or Soda 
result (HO,S0 3 and NaCl = NaO,S0 3 and HC1). 

Prop. An invisible gas, of a pungent acid odour, pro- 
ducing white fumes when escaping into the air, from the 
attraction of moisture. By pressure condensed into a 
liquid; specific gravity, 1-27. Extinguishes combustion ; 
is irrespirable. Water at 69°, absorbs 418 volumes of this 
gas, and the solution becomes the ordinary Hydrochloric 
or Muriatic Acid. This is a colourless, fuming liquid, 
of a suffocating odour, and acid, corrosive taste. The most 
concentrated acid has a specific gravity, 1-21. 

Impurities. The commercial acid has generally a yel- 
lowish tinge, from the presence of organic matter, or of 
Iron. It also often contains Sulphuric or Nitric Acids, 
more rarely Lead and Arsenic. 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Is the type of the Hydracids ; 
forms, when added to a base, Chlorides, of which that of 
Silver is insoluble. Is decomposed by substances which 
yield oxygen freely; the combining with the H, and 
liberating the CI. Dissolves metals with the evolution of 
H (Zn and HC1 = ZnCl, and H), forming Chlorides; 
with Nitric Acid forms the *Nitromuriatic Acid, or 
Aqua regia. 

Test. Nitrate of Silver. (See Chlorine.) 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 69 

Toxicol. Effects. Irritant poison. Antidotes ; alkalies, 
magnesia, chalk, soap, &c. 

Officinal Forms and Preps. a. *Acidum Muria- 
ticum — Muriatic Acid. An aqueous solution of Chloro- 
hydric Acid Gas, of the specific gravity 1*16. 

b. *Acldum Muriaticum DiLUTUM — Dilute Muri- 
atic Acid. R. Acid. Muriat. f§iv; Aq. Destill. f^xii. 
M. Specific gravity, 1*046. 

Med. Effects. Those of the mineral acids generally. 

C. *ACIDUM NlTROMURIATICUM — NlTROMURIATIC ACID 

— Aqua Regia. R. Acid. Nitric, fgiv; Acid. Muriat. 
fgviii; mix, and when effervescence has ceased, keep the 
product in a well-stopped glass bottle, in a cool and dark 
place. 

Contains free chlorine, which gives it the power of 
dissolving Gold and Platinum. Also contains Chloro- 
hyponitric Acid (N0 3 ,C1 2 ), and Chloronitrous Acid (N0 2 , 
CI) ; Hyponitric Acid (N0 4 ) is also formed after a time. 
It is an unstable compound, and should be prepared 
extemporaneously. 

Med. Effects. Supposed, in addition to usual properties 
of the Mineral Acids, to exert a specific effect on the liver. 
Is given internally, dose gtt. v, largely diluted ; also ex- 
ternally, in baths. Used principally in hepatic and syphi- 
litic diseases, and the oxalate of lime calculous diathesis. 

Incompatibles. The alkalies, earths; the carbonates, 



70 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

acetates, tartrates, sulphides ; nitrate of silver ; most 
metals. 

VIII. *IODINE. I. 126-36. 

Nat. Sources. Sea-weed, sea-water/ certain mineral 
springs, sponge, cod-liver oil, &c. 

Prep. Prepared from help, or ashes of sea-weed, in 
which it exists as Iodide of Sodium, by a process analo- 
gous to that by which Chlorine is obtained from Chlo- 
ride of Sodium. 

Prop. Crystalline scales, of a bluish-black colour, me- 
tallic lustre; specific gravity, 4-948. Evaporates at com- 
mon temperatures, having an odour resembling Chlorine, 
yet distinct from it. Fuses at 225°, boils at 347°, and 
rises in vapour of a beautiful violet colour ; specific 
gravity, 8*716. Taste, hot and acrid. Communicates an 
evanescent yellow stain to the skin. Soluble in 7000 
parts of water, to which it communicates a brown colour; 
is rendered freely soluble in water, by the addition of 
certain salts, — as the Iodide of Potassium ; freely solu- 
ble in Alcohol and jEther. 

Gen. Chem. Pel. Resembles Chlorine, but its affi- 
nities are more feeble. Does not bleach. Forms by in- 
direct combination with 0, Iodous Acid, I0 4 , Iodic Acid, 
I0 5 , and Periodic Acid, I0 7 ; with H, forms Hydriodic 
Acid, HI, an unstable acid, resembling in its general re- 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 71 

lations HC1. It forms also compounds with N, S, P, and 
CI, of which the Iodide or Sulphur is officinal. With 
metals, forms Iodides, of which those of Potassium, Iron, 
Lead, Arsenic, and Mercury, are officinal. 

Impurities. May contain charcoal, plumbago, binoxide 
of manganese ; these are readily detected by their fixed 
nature. Water is found sometimes in considerable quan- 
tity; is injurious, as rendering the Iodine weaker. May 
be detected by the Iodine adhering to the sides of the 
bottle, and removed by quicksilver. Iodide of Cyanogen 
is sometimes present ; is more volatile than Iodine, and 
may be separated by careful sublimation. 

Test. Liquid starch. The solutions must be cold, and 
the Iodine free. 

Officinal Forms, a. *Iodinium — Iodine. 

b. *Tinctura Iodinii — Tincture of Iodinii. R. Iodinii 
gj; Alcoh. Oj. M. 

Rem. When first made, precipitates on the addition of 
water ; after keeping, undergoes a change, Hydriodic Acid 
and other compounds being formed, and then does not 
precipitate. 

Principally used externally. Dose, when given inter- 
nally, gtt. x to xx, gradually increased. 

c. *Tinctura Iodinii Composita — Compound Tinc- 
ture of Iodine. R. Iodinii gss ) Potassi. Iod §j \ Alcoh. 
Oj. M. 

Rem. This tincture may be diluted with water without 



72 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

decomposition, the Iodide of Potassium rendering the 
Iodine soluble in water. Used in the same cases, and 
dose as the simple tincture. 

d. *LlQUOR IODINII COMPOSITUS — COMPOUND SOLU- 
TION of Iodine — LugoVs Solution. R. lodinii 3vi; 
Potass. Iodid. giss; Aq. Destill. Oj. M. 

Rem. The Iodine is here rendered soluble in the water, 
by the Iodide of Potassium. It is not liable to change, 
and is the preparation of Iodine generally resorted to for 
internal use. Dose, gtt. v. t. d. 

e. *Unguentum Iodinii — Iodine Ointment. R. 1. 
Iodin. 3J; 2. Potass. Iod. gr. iv; 3. Aquce itjj yi; 4. Adipis 
§i. Rub 1 and 2 with 3, until liquefied, and then mix 
with 4. 

Rem. Does not keep well. 

/. *Unguentum Iodinii Compositum — Compound 
Iodine Ointment. R. 1. Iodinii 5ss; 2. Potass. Iodid. 
3j ; 3. Alcoh. f 3J ; 4. Adipis §ij. Rub 1 and 2 with 3, 
and then with 4, until entirely mixed. 

g. *SULPHURIS IODIDUM. IODIDE OF SULPHUR. 

Is made by melting together Iodin. giv ; Sulphur §j. 

Rem. Grayish-black, solid, of a radiated, crystalline 
appearance ; smell of Iodine. Entirely volatilized by heat, 
and decomposed by long boiling with water ; the I escap- 
ing with the watery vapour, and S remaining suspended. 
Used only externally in ointment. Decomposed by many 
volatile oils. 



inorganic chemistry. 73 

1. *Unguentum Sulphuris Iodidi. Ointment of 
Iodide of Sulphur. R. Sulphur. Iodid. Jss ; Adipis §j. 
M. ft. ting. Used in cutaneous diseases. 

Med. and Tox. Effects. In large doses Iodine is an 
irritant poison. Antidote, boiled starch. 

In medicinal doses, stimulant and alterative. 

Externally, causes desquamation of the cuticle. 

Incompatibles. The salts of Iron, Lead, Mercury, 
Silver. The metals generally. 

IX. *BROMINE. Br. 78-26. 

Nat. Sources. Sea- water; saline springs, &c, from which 
it is obtained by a process analogous to that for procuring 
Chlorine. 

Prop. Opaque, brownish, red liquid. The only ele- 
ment besides Mercury existing in the liquid form at ordi- 
nary temperatures; specific gravity, 2-966; at-10°, freezes. 
Is volatile at ordinary temperature; has a peculiar dis- 
agreeable odour; caustic taste; boils at 116-5°, giving a 
vapour similar to fumes of N0 4 ; specific gravity, 5*39. 
Slightly soluble in water, more so in alcohol and aether. 
Corrodes the skin, and stains it yellow. 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Resembles Chlorine very strongly ; 
bleaches. Forms with 0, Bromic A, Br0 5 (not isolable), 
and with H, Hydrobromic A. Forms compounds (Bro- 
mides), with S, P, C1,I, and most of the metals, of which the 

7 



74 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Bromide of Potassium, is officinal. The Bromides are 
decomposed by CI, but Br decomposes the Iodides. 

Test. Chlorine water produces an orange-yellow tint 
in a solution, if Bromine be present. 

Med. and Tox. Prop. In overdose, an irritant poison ; 
antidote, Ammonia (Smee). 

In medicinal doses, its effects are those of Iodine, for 
which it is often substituted; is used generally as the 
*Bromide of Potassium (q. v.). 

Off. Form. *Brominium. Bromine. 

X. FLUORINE. F. 18-7. 

Nat. Sources. Fluor Spar. 

Prep. Has never been satisfactorily isolated. 

Gen. Chem. Pet. Extraordinary affinity for H, forming 
Hydrofluoric Acid. A corrosive liquid, acting power- 
fully on glass, by dissolving its Silica. Forms Fluorides. 
Is not employed in medicine. 

XL BORON. B. 10-9. 

Nat. Sources. Certain lagoons in Tuscany, as Boracic 
Acid ; in Thibet, as Borax. 

Rem. Only important as forming with 0, Boracic 
Acid, B0 3 , which, united with Soda, gives the Biborate 
of Soda (NaO, 2 B0 3 ), or Borax, which is officinal. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 75 

XII. SILICON [SILICIUM). Si. 21-35.* 

Rem. Exists in nature in combination with 0, as Si- 
lica, Si0 3 . ^Ex. : quarts, sand.) Silica is really an acid, 
although nearly insoluble : but fused with bases, as Po- 
tassa, Soda, Lime. Lead. &&, forms Silicates. (Ex. : glass 
or porcelain.) A number of native Silicates are known. 

THE METALS. 

General Properties. Opacity, metallic lustre, mal- 
leability, ductility ; conduct electricity and heat ; Sp« Gr. 
varies from 0-865 (Potassium), to 22-069(?) (Plod- 

Melting Paint Varies from — 39° ^Mercury) to the 

:f the compound blowpipe 'Platinum. dv.\ 
Vt Potassium^ Sodium, Zinc, Arsenic, J/er- 

curh. Lead) SUve ■. Cadmium, Tellu- 

rium, and probably others, are volatile. 

is. With each other, form 
Alloys. All unite with 0, but their affinity varies from 
that :f POTASSIUM, which decomposes water at 32°, to 
those which are oxidized with difficulty, as Platinum. 

When they unite with in more than one proportion, 
the lowest combination is strongly basic, the more 

be experiments of Mr. G;:r seemed bo prove SQieinm to be a 
Until its relations, as sneh, shall have been investigated, it has been At 
best to retain it in its position as the last of the non-metallic elements. 



76 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

feebly so, neutral or even acid. Ex. : Protoxide of 
Manganese, MnO, strongly basic ; Sesquioxide, Mn 2 3 , 
feebly basic; Binoxide, Mn0 2 , neutral ; Manganic acid, 
Mn0 3 , and Permanganic acid, Mn 2 7 , strongly acid. 

An Oxygen Acid united with the oxide of a metal 
forms a salt (Ampliide salt), which is neutral in composi- 
tion when there are as many equivalents of acid in the 
salt as there are of in the base. Thus a neutral pro- 
toxide requires one eq. of Acid, a Binoxide tico, and a Ses- 
quioxide, three equivalents. A salt, neutral in composition, 
may have an acid or alkaline reaction. If in a salt the 
base is oxidized, the acid remaining the same, a basic 
compound is formed, which is generally insoluble. 

Metals also combine with the other non-metallic ele- 
ments, as with Sulphur and the Halogens. The Sul- 
phides, Chlorides, &c, of the metals correspond gene- 
rally in their number, and the proportion of their con- 
stituents to the oxides. Ex. : FeO, Fe 2 3 , FeS, Fe^ ? 
FeCl,Fe 2 CL,FeI, Fe 2 L, &c. 

Classification. 1. Metals of the Alkalies. Potas- 
sium, Sodium, Lithium. 

2. Metals of the Alkaline Earths. Barium, Stron- 
tium, Calcium, Magnesium. 

3. Metals of the Earths. Aluminum, Glucinium, 
Zirconium, Yttrium, Zerbium, Erbium, Thorium, Norium. 

4. Metals Proper. Cobalt, Nickel, Zinc, Cadmium, 
Uranium, Cerium, Lantanum, Didymium. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 77 

5. Metals proper, whose higher oxides are acids. Man- 
ganese, Iron, Chromium, Tin, Bismuth, Arsenic, An- 
timony, Copper, Lead, Vanadium, Tungsten, Molyb- 
denum, Tantalum, Niobium, Titanium, Tellurium. 

6. Metals whose oxides are reduced by heat alone. 
Noble Metals. Gold, Mercury, Silver, Platinum, 
Palladium, Iridium, Ruthenium, Rhodium, Ilmenium, 
Osmium. 

A. Metals whose Preparations or Compounds are Offici- 
nal. Potassium, Sodium, Barium, Calcium, Magnesium, 
Aluminum, Iron, Zinc, Copper, Lead, Tin, Arsenic, An- 
timony, Bismuth, Mercury, Silver — 16. 

B. Metals not officinal, but used in medicine, or other- 
wise important. Strontium, Manganese, Chromium, Gold, 
Platinum — 5. ♦ 

The others named are unimportant, and will not be 
again referred to. 

XIII. POTASSIUM (KALIUM). K. 39. 

Prep. Obtained from Potassa, KO, by heating with 
C, which abstracts the 0, as CO, leaving K, which distils 
over. 

Prop. A brilliant, white metal, silvery lustre, soft at 
common temperatures; brittle and crystalline at 32°; 

7* 



(Q MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

melts at 136° ; distils at a low red heat, giving a vapour 
of a green colour. Sp. Gr. 0*865. Exists abundantly 
in combination in all vegetable forms. 

Gen. Chem. Ret. Strong affinity for 0; cut surface 
instantly tarnishes, becoming covered with a film of 
Potassa (KO), which gradually invades the whole mass. 
In contact with water will abstract the 0, taking fire, and 
liberating H. Forms with 0, two compounds, Potassa, 
KO, and Teroxide of Potassium, K0 3 . 

a. Potassa, KO, 47. 

Prep. Formed by oxidation of Potassa. A Hydrate, 
is made by the action of Caustic Lime on Carbonate of 
Potassa ) Carbonate of Lime and Caustic Potassa 

result. 

(KO,C0 2 and CaO, = CaO,C0 2 and KO.) 

Gen. Chem. Rel. ♦ One of the strongest bases. Forms 
salts with all acids ) all of which are freely soluble, except 
the Acid Tartrate, the Carbazotate, and the Double Chlo- 
ride of Potassium and Platinum. The Hydrate, Nitrate, 
Carbonates, Sulphate, Chlorate, Acetate, Tartrates, Citrate 
of Potassa, and the' Sulphide, Iodide, Bromide, Cyanide, 
and Ferrocyanide of Potassium, are officinal. 

Tests. Tartaric acid in excess, gives a white precipi- 
tate of Acid Tartrate of Potassa; sparingly soluble in 
water. 

Bichloride of Platinum, gives a yellow precipitate of the 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 79 

Double Chloride of Platinum and Potassium; sparingly 
soluble in water. 

Perchloric, Hydrofluosilic, and Carbazotic Acid (see 
Indigo) also give sparingly soluble precipitates. 

Incompatibles. All acids, acid salts, the salts of the 
earths, and metals generally. 

Officinal Preparations. 

a. *Liquor Potassa — Solution of Potassa. 

R. 1. Potass. Carb. fbj ; 2. Calcis¥b$$) 3. Aq. Dest. 
Bull. Cong. j. Dissolve 1 in Cong, ss of 3; slake 2 
with a little of 3 ; mix the hot liquors, and boil for ten 
minutes, stirring constantly. Set the liquor aside until 
it becomes clear, and pour off the supernatant liquid. 
The Sp. Gr. of this solution is 1*056. 

Rem. The theory of the process is given above ; con- 
tains about 6-7 per cent, of KO; always contains a certain 
amount of free Carbonate of Potassa and Lime; has a 
powerful attraction for C0 2 , and should be kept in well- 
stopped, green glass bottles. 

Med. Effects. Antacid, antilithic, alterative. In exces- 
sive doses a corrosive poison; antidotes, weak acids, as 
vinegar, mucilaginous and oily drinks. 

b. *Potassa. Caustic Potassa — Hydrate of Potassa, 
made by evaporating down the Liq. Potassa, and running 
the fused potassa into sticks. 

Rem, Contains a little Lime and Carbonate of Potassa; 
may be purified by solution in alcohol, and evaporation. 
Should be kept in well-stopped bottles. 



80 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY, 

Prop. Sticks, of a dingy gray colour, very deliques- 
cent, producing a soapy feel, from destruction of the 
cuticle. 

Med. Uses. A powerful escharotic, destroying the tis- 
sues to a considerable extent; is deliquescent and unma- 
nageable. May be neutralized by weak acids. 

b. Nitrate. 

C. *POTASS.E NlTRAS — NlTRATE OF POTASSA (Nitre, 

Saltpetre), (KO,N0 5 ). 

Prep. May be made by adding N0 5 to KO, or its 
carbonate. Exists in many caves, in the southwest 
portion of the United States, also, in India, Egypt, Peru, 
and many parts of Europe. Is formed artificially on the 
large scale in Nitre beds. 

Prop. A white salt, occurring in elongated, anhy- 
drous crystals, with dihedral summits; sharp, cooling 
taste ; soluble in 7 pts. of water at 60°, and its weight of 
boiling water; fuses below a red heat, and at a higher 
heat is decomposed. Yields part of its readily to 
heated surfaces : hence used in deflagrating mixtures, as 
gunpowder, and sometimes as a source of 0. 

Med. and Tox. Prop. In large doses ^ss to gj, an 
irritant poison : no direct antidote is known. 

In medicinal doses, gr. y 1 ^ to v., refrigerant, ? diapho- 
retic, and diuretic. 

Paper is soaked in its solution, dried, and the products 
of its combustion inhaled, in asthma. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 81 

Used in large quantities; §j or gij in 24 hours, in 
divided doses, largely diluted , in acute rheumatism. 
Incompat. Strong Sidphuric Acid. 

c. Carbonates. 

d. *Potass^e Carbonas Impurus — Pearlash, KO, 
C0 3 . 

Prep. Obtained from the ashes of wood in lixiviation. 
It contains insoluble impurities, with Silicate and Sul- 
phate of Potassa and Chloride of Potassium. It is 
purified from these by mixing with an equal weight of 
cold water, allowing it to stand a day, stirring frequently, 
and filtering. The salts named, being less soluble than 
the KO,C0 2 , remain, with the mechanical impurities, in 
the filter. The solution is then evaporated, until it 
thickens, and stirred until it becomes granular. It is 
then the 

e. *Potass.e Carbonas — Carbonate of Potassa. 
Prop. Coarse, granular, white powder, of a nauseous, 

alkaline taste, and alkaline reaction ; soluble in its own 
weight of water ; very deliquescent. Is not entirely free 
from the impurities named above. 

Med. Prop. Those of the alkalies generally. 

Incompat. Acids, Acidulous salts, Muriate and Ace- 
tate of Ammonia, Lime-water, Chloride of Calcium, 
Sulphates of Magnesia and Alumina, Nitrate of Silver, 
Ammoniated Copper and Iron, Sulphate of Iron, Chlo- 



82 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

ride of Iron, Calomel, Corrosive Sublimate, Acetate of 
Lead, Sulphate of Zinc. 

/. *Liquor Potass^ Carbonatis — Solution of Car- 
bonate or Potassa. R. Potass. Carb. Hbj ; Aquce f gxii. 
Solve et cola. 

g m ^Potass^e Carbonas Purus — Pure Carbonate of 
Potassa, Salt of Tartar. 

Is obtained by heating the ^Bicarbonate of Potassa, 
by which one equivalent of C0 3 is driven off. The residue 
is dissolved, filtered, and evaporated. 

Prop. Differs only from Potass. Carb. in being purer. 

h. *POTASS^ BlCARBONAS — BICARBONATE OF Po- 

tassa — Sal Aeratus, K0,C0 3 +H0,C0 2 . Made bypass- 
ing a current of C0 2 through a solution of KO,C0 3 , to 
saturation ; evaporation and crystallization. 

Prop. Transparent, colourless, inodorous crystals ; alka- 
line, not acrid, taste ; slight alkaline reaction. Soluble in 
4 pts. cold, and | its weight of boiling w T ater, which re- 
duces it to Sesquicarbonate. Permanent in the air, decom- 
posed by heat. 

Med. Effects. Less irritating than the monocarbonate. 
Is used in the preparation of the u neutral mixture/' 
*Liquor Potassa Citratis,* in which Oss of lemon- 

* The salts of the organic acids will in general be introduced with their bases, 
in order to simplify the department of Organic Chemistry. The formula of 
Citric Acid is 3H0, C12, H5, On, the water being basic, and replaced in its 
combinations. It is therefore tribasic. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 83 

juice is neutralized with q. s. of the salt. Also to form 
the *Potass^] Citras : Acid. Citric, gx ; Potass. Bicarb. 
§xiv ; Aquo3 q. s. ; mix, and after effervescence has ceased, 
evaporate to dryness. 

Incompat. Those of KO,CO a . 

d. Sulphide. 

i. POTASSII SULPHURETUM — SlJLPHURET (Sulphide) OF 

Potassium — Hepar Sidphuris, Liver of Sulphur. 

R. Sulphur 3 j, Potass. Carb. gij. Rub the S with 
the Carbonate of Potassa, previously dried, and melt the 
mixture in a covered crucible, over the fire. Then pour 
it out, and when cool, break into pieces, which preserve 
in a well-stopped bottle. 

Rem. The CO a is expelled, and the reaction takes 
place between 10 eq. S, and 4 KO = KS 3 and KO,S0 3 . 
The preparation is therefore a mixture of Ter sulphide of 
Potassium and Sulphate of Potassa. 

Prop. Liver brown, brittle, solid ; inodorous when dry, 
fetid smell of HS when moist ; nauseous, bitter, alkaline 
taste ; completely soluble in water ; exposed to the air, 
absorbs 0, and is converted into KO,S0 3 . 

Med. and Tox. Prop. Large doses poisonous ) acts as a 
local irritant, and gives off HS, which is sedative, and re- 
duces the action of the heart. Antidotes : Sulphate of 
Zinc, Acetate of Lead. 



84 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

In medicinal doses sedative and alterative. 
Used principally externally, in solution, as a bath in 
skin diseases. 

Incompat. The mineral acids ; the metals generally. 

e. Sulphate. 

k. ^Potass^ Sulphas — Sulphate of Potassa, KO,S0 3 . 

Prep. The direct union of its constituents. Is a secon- 
dary product in several chemical processes. 

Prop. A white, anhydrous salt, in small, very hard, 
six-sided, prismatic crystals ; nauseous, somewhat bitter 
taste ; soluble in 10 parts cold, and 4 of boiling water. 

Med. Effects. Mild purgative. If not dissolved, may, 
from the hardness of its crystals, produce symptoms of 
irritant poisoning. Used in *Dover/s Powder (pulv. 
Ipecac, et Opii), to divide and mix well the ingredients. 
Dose 9j to 3ss. 

Incompat. Tartaric Acid, Salts of Baryta, Strontia, 
Lime, Silver, and Lead. 

f. Chlorate. 

I. *Potassj£ Chloras — Chlorate of Potassa. 

Prep. By passing a current of Chlorine gas into a 
strong solution of Caustic Potassa. A part of the KO 
is decomposed ; its combines with CI, to form C10 5 , 
which unites with another porticu of KO, while the K 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 85 

combines with another portion of CI, to form KC1. 
6 CI, and 6 KO = 5 KC1 and KO,C10 5 . 

Prop. Flat, tabular, anhydrous crystals, of a pearly 
lustre, cooling taste ; soluble in 16 parts water, at 60°, 
and in 2 J of boiling water. Deflagrates on burning coals, 
and detonates with S, P, &c. Gives off all its by heat, 
leaving KC1. 

Med. Effects. Refrigerant and diuretic. Used in can- 
crum oris. (Hunt. Watson.) 

Dose gr. x to xxx. 

Incompat. The Mineral Acids, Tartaric Acid. 

g. Iodide. 

m. Potassii Iodidum — Iodide of Potassium, KI. 

R. Potassce gvi, Iodinii §xvi, Carho lig. pulv. subtill. 
gij, Aq. Bull. Oiij. 

The KO in solution, is treated by the I. Iodide of 
Potassium and Iodate of Potassa are formed. 6 I and 
6 KO = 5 KI and KO,I0 5 . The solution is evaporated, 
and by heat and stirring with the charcoal, the KO,I0 5 is 
reduced to KI. The salt is then dissolved out and crys- 
tallized. 

Prop. Generally in anhydrous cubic crystals, opaque 
white or transparent; soluble in f of its weight of cold 
water, and in 6 or 8 parts cold alcohol ; saline, cooling, dis- 
agreeable taste. 

Impurities and Adulterations. Bromide of Potassium, 



86 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

sometimes sold for the Iodide, does not precipitate with 
Corrosive Sublimate. The most common impurities are, 
1. Chlorides, which, with Nitrate of Silver, throw down 
a white precipitate, AgCl, freely soluble in Ammonia. KI 
throws down Iodide of Silver, Ag. I, which is scarcely 
soluble in Ammonia; 2. Bromides, which may be detected 
by removing all the I from the liquid by Sulphate of Cop- 
per, and S0 2 , and testing for Bromine. Iodate and Carbo- 
nate of Potassa may be detected by their insolubility in 
alcohol. If the Iodide should be very deliquescent, KO, 
C0 2 may be suspected. 

Med. Effects. Those of Iodine generally. Used in slow 
poisoning by Mercury and Lead; which it is supposed 
to convert in the tissues into Iodides, which it afterwards 
dissolves. May thus render Mercury active, and produce 
salivation. 

Dose, gr. v to xxx; has been given in §ss doses. Its 
ointment, 

n. *Unguentum Potassii Iodidi, is made by rubbing 
up 3j Potass. Iodid., dissolved in f 3J Aqua?,, with §j 
Adipis. 

Incompatibles. Mineral Acids, Salts of Copper, Lead, 
Silver, Iron, Manganese ; all the preparations of Mer- 
cury, except the Iodides — Tartaric Acid. 

h. Bromide. 

o. Potassii Bromidum — Bromide of Potassium, K. Br. 

R. Bromin. 31J; Ferri Ramentce ^j ; Potass. Garb. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 87 

^ij, 5J 7 or q. s.j Aq. Destill. Oiv. The Bromine is com- 
bined with the iron filings, to form Bromide of Iron; 
which is then decomposed by the KO,C0 2 , FeBr, and 
KO,C0 2 = FeO,C0 2 and KBr. The solution of KBr ; is 
filtered from the insoluble Carbonate of Iron, and the 
salt crystallized out. 

Prop. Resembles in appearance KI. Taste similar to 
common salt, but more acrid. Freely soluble in water ; 
less so in alcohol. 

Med. Effects. Those of KI, but less energetic. Dose, 
gr. iij to x, t. d. Used externally in ointment, 9j to 3lj; 
to 3j Adipis. 

k. Organic Compounds. 

p. potass^e acetas — acetate of potassa, ko,a, 

or (C 4 H 3 3 ). 

Prep. By saturating * Acetic Acid with Carbonate of 
Potassa, and evaporating to dryness. 

Prop. Foliated white crystalline mass, very deliques- 
cent, of a warm, pungent, saline taste. Soluble in half 
its weight of water, and twice its weight of alcohol. 
Heated above point of fusion, decomposed into Acetone 
and K0,C0 2 . 

Med. Effects. Diuretic ; in larger doses, cathartic. 

Incompat. The mineral acids, sulphate of soda and 
magnesia, corrosive sublimate, nitrate of silver ; the aci- 



88 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

dulous salts, and those of the metals proper, and earths 
generally. 

q. PoTASSiE BlTARTRAS — Bitartrate of Potassa. Acid 
Tartrate of Potassa, Cream of Tartar. KO,HO, T * 

Prep. From the deposit in wine casks, the Argol ; by 
solution in hot water, and re-crystallization. 

Prop. White, crystalline, permanent salt, slightly acid 
taste, acid reaction; soluble in 184 parts cold, and 18 
boiling water; insoluble in alcohol. Is decomposed by 
a red heat, leaving carbonate of potassa, and charcoal. 
When in powder, liable to adulteration ; but generally 
pure in crystals. 

Chem. Eel. ^Tartaric Acid being bibasic, this salt 
consists of one eq. of acid, one of potassa, and one of 
water. By substituting for the latter, potassa, soda, the 
oxides of iron and antimony, a series of double salts is 
formed. 

Med. Effects. Cathartic, diuretic, refrigerant. 

Incompat. Solutions of Baryta, Strontia, Lime, Acetate 
of Lead ; the concentrated mineral acids. 

r. Potass^ Tartras — Tartrate of Potassa — So- 
luble Tartar. 2KO,T. 

Prep. Made by adding to Bitartrate of Potassa 
an eq. of Carbonate of Potassa, and boiling. The 



* The formula of Tartaric Acid, crystallized, is 2HO,C s .H40io, the water 
being basic. Its symbol is T. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 89 

C0 2 is given off, and two eqs. of neutral Tartrate of 
Potassa are formed. KO,HO,T, and KO,C0 2 = 2KO,T, 
and HO and C0 2 . 

Prop. White, slightly deliquescent, anhydrous salt; 
soluble in two parts cold water, and less of boiling water. 
By heat melts, blackens, aud is converted into KO,C0 2 . 

Med. Effects. Mild purgative. 

Incompat. Those of the Bitartrate ; the acidulous 
salts. 

s, t. *Potass^ Citras, and *Liq. Potass^ Citras. 
See *Potass^e Bicarbonas. 

u. Potassii Ferrocyanuretum — Ferrocyanuret (Fer- 
rocyanide) of Potassium. 2K, (Fe 3Cy). 

Prep. Is made on the large scale, by calcining animal 
matters with carbonate of potassa, and adding iron. Has 
also been made by the action of a current of air upon 
a mixture of charcoal and carbonate of potassa, and iron. 
This process, although successful, was not economical, 
from the waste of potash. 

Prop. Large, transparent, lemon-yellow crystals; in- 
odorous ; of a sweetish, saline taste. Soluble in about 
four parts of cold, and one of boiling water. Contains 
three eq. of water, when crystallized, which it loses at 
126°. Forms characteristic precipitates when added to 
the salts of copper, zinc, and sesquioxide of iron. 

Med. Effects. When pure, is not poisonous. Is consi- 
dered sedative and astringent, but is seldom used. 

8* 



90 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Ferricyanide of Potassium. See Part III. 

v. *P0TASSII Cyanuretum — Cyanuret (Cyanide) of 
Potassium , KCy. 

Prep. Is prepared by fusing together Ferrocyanide of 
Potassium (§viii) and Carbonate of Potassa (§iij), until 
effervescence ceases. 

Prop. White, opaque, amorphous masses ; sharp, bit- 
ter, alkaline taste ; alkaline reaction ; is deliquescent ; very 
soluble in water, and sparingly so in strong alcohol; is 
usually impure, containing principally Carbonate of Po- 
tassa, also Cyanate and Formate of Potassa. Decomposes 
slowly in the air, Hydrocyanic Acid being disengaged, 
and Carbonate of Potassa formed. 

Med. Effects. Those of Hydrocyanic Acid, which is 
liberated by the addition of acids. When an excess of 
Tartaric Acid is added, the Acid Tartrate of Potassa falls, 
leaving Hydrocyanic Acid in solution. From its variable 
strength is uncertain. Dose, gr. |th. 

Incompatibles. All Acids, and Acid Salts, Nitrate of 
Silver. 

XIV. SODIUM (NATRIUM). Na. 22-97. 

Prep. Obtained by reducing Soda by charcoal, at a 
high heat. 

Prop. Resembles, in all its properties, Potassium ; is 
soft, silvery, easily tarnished; Sp. Gr. 0-972; liquid at 
1-94 ; decomposes water, but does not take fire, unless the 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 91 

water be warm, or the metal be prevented from moving 
about. 

Abundant in all animal forms, as Potassa is in the 
vegetable ; forms with 0, NaO, Soda, Na0 2 , Binoxide of 
Na, and perhaps Na0 37 Teroxide. All the compounds of 
Sodium resemble strongly those of Potassium. 

A. Soda, NaO. 

Made by oxidizing Na. The Hydrate, Caustic Soda, 
is made by boiling Carbonate of Soda, and Caustic Lime. 
See Potassa. Resembles Caustic Potassa. 

Ghem. Rel. A powerful base ; forms an extensive series 
of salts, all of which are soluble. 

The Chloride of Sodium, Chlorinated Soda, and 
the Nitrate, Carbonates, Sulphate, Phosphate, 
Acetate, and Tartrate, are officinal. 

Test. The yellow colour its salts communicate to the 
flame of the blowpipe. 

Incompatibles. Those of KO, except the Neutral Tar- 
trates. 

b. Carbonates. 

a. *Sod.e Carbonas — Carbonate oe Soda, NaO, 
C0 2 . 

Prep. Is obtained from Barilla, the ashes of plants 
growing by the sea-side, but more generally by the de- 
composition of Sulphate or Soda. This salt is heated 



92 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

in a reverberatory furnace, with limestone (CaO,C0 2 ), and 
coarse coal (C). The Carbon deoxidizes the NaO,S0 3 , 
leaving Sulphide of Sodium. NaO,S0 3 and 4 C = NaS, 
and 4 CO. The Sulphide of Sodium reacts with the 
Carbonate of Lime to form Sulphide of Calcium, and 
Carbonate of Soda, NaS, and CaO,C0 2 = NaO,C0 2 
and CaS. The Carbonate of Soda is obtained from the 
mixture by solution and crystallization. 

Prop. A colourless salt, crystallizing in large, oblique, 
rhombic prisms, which effloresce. They contain about 
60 p. c. of water. Taste alkaline and disagreeable, solu- 
ble in 2 parts cold water ; reaction alkaline ; heated loses 
its water, and afterwards fuses ; may contain a small quan- 
tity of common salt, Sulphate of Soda, or Sulphide of Po- 
tassium, as impurities; but they are not in sufficient 
quantity to be injurious for ordinary purposes. 

Med. Effects and Incompat. Those of Carbonate of 
Potassa. 

Dose, gr. x to 3ss ; in large quantities an irritant poi- 
son. Antidotes : vinegar, lemon juice, fixed oils. 

b. *Sod.e Carbonas Exsiccatus — Dried Carbonate 
of Soda. 

Is made by drying the crystallized carbonate ; from its 
containing less water must be given in smaller doses ; is 
convenient for making into pills. 

C. *SOD^B BlCARBONAS — BICARBONATE OF SODA — Su- 
per Carbonate of Soda, HO,C0 2 , NaO,C0 2 . 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 93 

Prep. By saturating NaO,C0 2 with C0 2 . The opera- 
tion is best performed by placing the crystals of the salt 
in a porous diaphragm in a box, and passing the gas over 
them. As the Bicarbonate contains less water than the 
Carbonate, the excess falls through the perforations during 
the process. 

Prop. A white powder ; alkaline, not acrid taste ; alka- 
line reaction ; soluble in 13 parts cold water ; in boiling 
water loses a portion of C0 2 , and becomes Sesquicar- 
bonate. 

Med. Properties. The mildest and least disagreeable of 
the alkaline preparations. Employed in the same cases as 
the alkalies generally. Also in Soda and Seidlitz Pow- 
ders. 

c. Sulphate. 

d. Sod^g Sulphas — Sulphate of Soda — Glauber's 
Salt, NaO,S0 3 . 

Prep. Made by the action of S0 3 on the weaker salts 
of Soda. 

Prop. Recently prepared is in long prismatic crystals; 
cooling and bitter taste ; containing 10 eq. water, or nearly 
76 per cent., in which they fuse readily, and lose entirely, 
by efflorescence in dry air at common temperatures. The 
anhydrous salt is soluble in 5 parts water at 60°, and 2 
parts at 91°, which is its temperature of maximum solu- 
bility. 



94 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Med. Prop. Cathartic. Not now much used. 
Incompat. Those of the soluble salts of Sulphuric 
Acid. 

d. Phosphates. 

Soda forms with P0 5 in common with other bases, three 
distinct salts, each containing one eq. of acid, but having 
respectively one, two, and three eqs. of base. They are the 
Metaphosphate of Soda, NaO,P0 5 , made by heating acid 
Phosphate of Soda to redness ; Pyrophosphate of Soda, 2 
NaO,P0 5 , made by heating the common Phosphate of 
Soda to redness ; and Common Phosphate of Soda, 
HO,2NaO,P0 5 +24HO, made by adding Carbonate of 
Soda to the Superphosphate of Lime, obtained by adding 
S0 3 to calcined bones. The Lime is converted into Car- 
bonate, while the P0 5 unites with the NaO. This is the 
officinal salt. We have also the Subphosphate of Soda, 
3NaO,P0 5 , acid Phosphate of Soda, 2 HO,NaO,P0 5 , 
2 HO, and Bipyrophosphate of Soda, HO, NaO,P0 5 . 

e. *Sodje Phosphas — Phosphate of Soda. — Taste- 
less, purging salt, HO,2 NaO,P0 5 . 

Prep. Given above. 

Prop. Large, transparent, colourless crystals, speedily 
efflorescing, and becoming opaque; taste resembles com- 
mon salt ; reaction alkaline ; soluble in 4 parts cold, 2 
boiling water; gently heated, loses water of crystalli- 
zation : at a red heat, loses its basic water, and becomes 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 95 

pyrophosphate; contains 24 equiv. of water of crystalli- 
zation. 

Med. Effects. Mild cathartic. 

Dose gj to gij. 

Incompat. Soluble Salts of Lime; neutral metallic 
solutions ; strong acids. 

e. Chloride. NaCl. 

/. *Sodii Chloridtjm — Chloride of Sodium, Common 
Salt, NaCl. 

Prep. Is obtained from sea-water, salt springs, or salt 
mines (rock salt), in which it exists native. Sea-water or 
that of salt springs is evaporated, until the greater part of 
the NaCl crystallizes out; the mother liquid, holding in 
solution the more soluble salts, as the Chlorides of Mag- 
nesium, the Sulphate of Soda, &c, is drawn off, consti- 
tuting bittern. 

Prop. An anhydrous salt, crystallizing in cubes ; of a 
well-known, agreeable taste ; when pure, does not alter 
in the air ; soluble in about 3 parts water ; the solubility 
is not much increased by heat. 

Impurities. Insoluble matters, Chlorides of Lime and 
Magnesium, Sulphates of Soda and Lime. 

Med. Effects. Small doses, tonic, anthelmintic; large, 
emetic and purgative. Is the antidote to Nitrate of 
Silver. 



96 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Incompat. Strong Sulphuric Acid, Nitrate of Silver, 
Sulphates of Copper and Iron, Protoxide of Mercury. 

g. *Liquor SoDiE Chlorinate — Solution of Chlo- 
rinated Soda — Labarraque's Disinfecting Liquid. 
NaO,C10, and NaCl ? 

Prep. R. Calcis Chlorinat. Bbj ; Sodce Carb. ftij ; 
Aq. Cong. jss. Dissolve the Carbonate of Soda in Oiij 
of the Aq., with the aid of heat; to the remainder of the 
Aq. add the Calc. Chlorin. by small portions, stirring 
after each addition ; allow the solution to stand, that im- 
purities may subside; pour off the clear liquor and mix 
with the solution of Sodce Carb. ; allow the precipitate of 
Carbonate of Lime to subside; pass the clear liquid 
through a linen cloth, and keep in well-stopped bottles, 
secluded from the light. 

Rem. This process consists in decomposing a solution 
of ^Chlorinated Lime by Carbonate of Soda ; Carbonate 
of Lime and Chlorinated Soda result. The constitution 
of this solution is uncertain (see ^Chlorinated Lime). 
It may be either Hypochlorite of Soda, with Chloride of 
Sodium, or, according to Millon, contains an Oxy chloride 

of Sodium, Na 2 j° 2 ' or 2 NaO,Cl. 
(CI, 

Prop. A colourless liquid; faint odour of Chlorine, 
alkaline reaction. 

Med. Uses. Those of Chlorine, upon which it depends 
for its effects. It is the most elegant and manageable of 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 97 

the Chlorine compounds for prescription or use on the 
small scale. 

Dose) gtt. xxx. to f 3Jj diluted. 

Incompat. Acids, Nitrate of Silver. 

With Iodine and Bromine, sodium forms salts analo- 
gous to those of Potassium. They are sometimes em- 
ployed in medicine. 

f. Borate. 

h. Sodje Boras — Borax, NaO, 2 B0 3 . 

Prep. Occurs native and is made by the addition of 
native Boracic Acid, B0 3 , to Soda. 

Prop. A white, crystalline salt, soluble in 12 parts 
cold and 2 of boiling water; taste, sweetish alkaline; 
reaction, alkaline ; exposed to the air, effloresces ; contains 
ordinarily 10 eqs. water of crystallization, in which it 
fuses at a moderate heat; at a higher heat, loses its water 
of crystallization and fuses, forming, when cool, glass of 
Borax. Is a Biborate of Soda. 

Med. Effects. Refrigerant and diuretic. Generally 
used, rubbed up with sugar and honey, as a mild astrin- 
gent in aphthous sore mouth of children. 

g. Organic Compounds. 

i. Sonm Acetas — Acetate of Soda, NaO, A. 
Prep. Is made by saturating Acetic Acid with Carbo- 
nate of Soda. 

9 



98 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Prop. White salt, crystallized in long, striated prisms ; 
effloresces slowly in dry air; contains 6 eq. water, when 
crystallized ; soluble in 3 parts cold water, and 24 of alco- 
hol; heated, melts in its water of crystallization, which is 
then driven off, and the salt undergoes igneous fusion, and 
is finally decomposed, the residue being a mixture of NaO, 
C0 2 , and C. 

Med. Effects. Those generally of Acetate of Potassa. 

k. SODiE ET POTASSiE TARTRAS — TARTRATE OF Po- 

tassa and Soda — Rochelle Salt, KO,NaOT. 

Is made by saturating a boiling solution of Bitartrate 
of Potassa with Carbonate of Soda, KO,HO,T, and 
NaO,CO = KO,NaO,T, and C0 2 , and HO. 

Prop. Large, transparent, prismatic crystals, efflores- 
cing in the air ; the crystalline salt contains 10 eq. water ; 
dissolves in 5 parts cold, and 1J boiling water; taste mild 
saline ; reaction neutral. 

Med. Effects. The least nauseous of the saline cathar- 
tics ; the active ingredient of Seidlitz Powders. These are 
composed of gr. xxv Acid. Tartaric, put up in a white 
paper, and 3ij Sodce et Potass. Tart., with 9ij Sodce 
Bicarb., mixed, and put up in the blue paper. When the 
contents of these are separately dissolved, and the solutions 
mixed, effervescence takes place, owing to the escape of 
the C0 2 of the KO,C0 2 , while the KO unites with the T, 
to form an additional eq. of Tartrate of Soda. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 99 

Incompat. Acids, Acidulous Salts, Salts of the Alka- 
line Earths. 

XV. AMMONIUM. NIK 18. (Hypothetical.) 

When a globule of mercury is placed on a piece of 
moistened Sal Ammoniac, and submitted to the action of 
a powerful voltaic battery, an amalgam is formed. It may 
also be procured by immersing an amalgam of Potassium 
and Mercury in a strong solution of Sal Ammoniac. The 
mass swells to many times its original bulk, and becomes 
pasty. Left to itself, it quickly decomposes into Mercury, 
Ammonia, and Hydrogen. 

The amalgam thus formed, is supposed to be constituted 
of Mercury, and an hypothetical substance, Ammonium, 
which, although composed of Nitrogen and Hydrogen, acts 
in all its chemical relations as an elementary body. Its 
compounds resemble strongly those of Potassium and 
Sodium. All attempts to isolate it have failed. Its oxide 
is Ammonia, NH 4 (NH 3 ). 

a. Ammonia, NH 4 (NH 8 ). 

Prep. Made by heating a mixture of Chloride of 
Ammonium (Muriate of Ammonia, Sal Ammoniac), with 
Quicklime, Ammonia is given off, and Chloride of 
Calcium remains. NH 4 C1 and CaO = NH 4 and CaCl. 

Prop. A colourless, transparent gas, taste hot and 
acrid, odour pungent and suffocating; is irrespirable ; Sp. 



100 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Gr. 0*59 ; is slightly inflammable ; by cold and pressure, is 
condensed into a transparent, colourless liquid, Sp. G-r. 
0-731; cold water dissolves about 670 vols, of this gas, 
and the solution, which increases in bulk about two- 
thirds, is specifically lighter than pure water. 

Gen. Chem. Pel. Is a powerful alkali, having the alka- 
line reaction, and combining with acids to form salts, 
which bear a striking general resemblance to those of Po- 
tassa and Soda. From the volatile nature of the base, 
they are decomposed or volatilized by a high heat. They 
are all colourless when pure, and soluble. They may be 
recognized by the evolution of Ammonia, when treated 
with Hydrate of Lime. 

Officinal Forms. 

a. Liquor Ammonite Fortior — Stronger Solution of 
Ammonia. 

Prep. By passing Ammonia into water kept cold. 

Prop. A colourless liquid, of a caustic acrid taste, and 
very pungent smell; Sp. Gr. 0-875 at 50°; gelatinizes at 
40°, and boils at 130°, liberating Ammonia; it contains 
32-5 p. c. of Ammonia. 

Med. Effects. Is too strong for medical use ; is used to 
form other preparations of Ammonia. 

Incompat. Acids, Acidulous Salts, the neutral salts of 
the metals generally, Chlorine. 

b. ^Liquor Ammonite — Solution of Ammonia. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 101 

Is the term applied to an aqueous solution of Ammonia, 
of Sp. Gt. 0-960, containing about 10 per cent. 

Med. Effects. Stimulant, diaphoretic, antacid; used in 
cases of bites of serpents, stings of insects, &c, both inter- 
nally and applied to the wound ; externally is rubefacient 
and vesicant \ in over dose, an irritant poison, — antidote, 
weak acids. Dose, gtt. x to xxx. 

c. *Spiritus Ammonite — Spirit or Ammonia — Spi- 
rit of Hartshorn. 

Prep. By passing Ammoniacal Gas into * Alcohol. 

Prop. Colourless, transparent liquid; taste acrid and 
caustic; odour strongly ammoniacal ; Sp. G-r. about 0*831, 
being about the strength of the *Liq. Ammonite. Dose, 
gtt. x to xxx. 

d. *Spiritus Ammonite Aromaticus — Aromatic 
Spirit of Ammonia — Aromatic Spirit of Hartshorn. 

R. Ammon. Mur. §v; Potass. Garb, gviii; Cinnam. 
Contus. Caryophyll. Contus. aa 3^j ; Cort. Limon. §iv; 
Alcohol, Aquce, aa Ov. M. and distil Oviiss. 

Pern. The Muriate of Ammonia (Chloride of Ammo- 
nium) and Carbonate of Potassa react, to form Carbonate 
of Ammonia, and Chloride of Potassium. NH 4 C1 and 
K0,C0 2 = NH 4 0,C0 2 and KC1. The preparation is there- 
fore a solution of Carbonate of Ammonia, impregnated 
with the oils of Cinnamon, Cloves, and Lemon. Sp. G-r. 
0-918. 

Dose, gtt. x to xxx. 

9* 



102 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

e. *Linimenttjm Ammonite — Liniment of Ammonia. 

Yo la t He L in im ent. 

R. Lia. Ammonice f gi ; 01. Olivcef%\y M. 

The solution of Ammonia forms, with the oil, a soap. 
Is much used as a mild rubefacient. 

b. Carbonates. 

/. *Ammonije Carbonas — Carbonate of Ammonia, 
2NH 4 0,3C0 2 . 

Prep. Is made by subliming a mixture of Muriate of 
Ammonia (Chloride of Ammonium), and Chalk (Carbo- 
nate of Lime), 3 NH 4 C1, and 3 CaO,CO =2 NH 4 0, 3C0 2 , 
and 3 CaCl and NH 4 0. 

Prop, White, moderately hard, translucent masses; 
soluble in four parts cold water, and in diluted alcohol; 
is decomposed by boiling water. Smell pungent, ammo- 
niacal ; taste sharp, alkaline. Exposed to the air, it dis- 
engages neutral carbonate of ammonia (NH 4 0,C0 2 ), and 
becomes Bicarbonate (2NH 4 0,3CO— NH 4 C0 2 = NH 4 0, 
2C0 2 ). The Bicarbonate is inodorous, fixed ; its crystals 
resemble those of Bicarbonate of Potassa. 

Med, Effects. A mild preparation, possessing the thera- 
peutical properties of ammonia. Dose, gr. v. 

Incompatible^. Those of the soluble carbonates, and of 
Ammonia. 

With c, Hydrosulphtjric Acid, HS, Ammonia forms 
the Hydrosulphate of Ammonia; or more properly, 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 103 

the Hydrosulphate of the Sulphide of Ammonium, NH 4 
S + HS. This is made by passing HS into Liq. Am- 
monite to saturation. It is nearly colourless at first, but 
slowly becomes yellow. It is of great value as a test for 
the metals. Has been used in Medicine, in cases where 
Hydrosulphuric acid is indicated ; and possesses, in 
addition, the effects of Ammonia. It is an exceedingly 
useful application, externally in rheumatism and gout. 

d. Chloride. 

g. * Ammonite Murias — Muriate of Ammonia (Chlo- 
ride of Ammonium) — Sal, Ammoniac, NH 3 KC1, or 
NH 4 C1. 

Prejp. On the large scale, from organic matters con- 
taining Ammonia — as gas liquor, bone spirit, putrid urine, 
soot, coal, and guano. The various compounds of am- 
monia in these are generally converted into sulphate by 
the addition of S0 3 . This is sublimed with common 
salt, giving sulphate of soda, and chloride of ammonium. 
NH 4 0,S0 3 , and NaCl=NaO,S0 3 , and NH 4 C1. 

Prop. White, inodorous, translucent, fibrous salt ; 
taste pungent, saline. Soluble in three parts cold, and 
one boiling water ; less so in ordinary alcohol. Sub- 
limes unchanged at a red heat ; very difficult to powder. 
It may be granulated by evaporating its solution, and 
constantly stirring as the mass thickens. Reaction 
slightly acid. 



104 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Med. Effects. Alterative; in large doses, purgative. 
Externally, in bruises, tumours, &c. Dose, gr. v to xxx. 

Incompat. Those of the soluble chlorides, and of am- 
monia. 

e. Acetate. 

h. Liquor Ammonia Acetatis — Solution of Ace- 
tate or Ammonia — Spirit of Minder er us, NH 4 0,A. 

Prep. By saturating ^Diluted Acetic Acid with 
carbonate of ammonia. 

Prop. Colourless, inodorous liquid, saline taste. 
Speedily decomposes. 

Med. Effects. Diaphoretic, or diuretic ; used in intoxi- 
cation. Externally, as a cooling alterative lotion in skin 
diseases. Dose, fgss to fgj. 

Incompat. Alkalies, alkaline earths, lime-water; those 
of the soluble acetates, and of ammonia generally. 

METALS OF THE ALKALINE EARTHS. 
XVI. BARIUM. Ba. 68-84. 

Prep. By passing the vapour of K over Baryta. 

Prop. White metal, resembling silver ; fusible below 
a red heat ; sinks in oil of vitriol ; decomposes water with 
avidity, forming BaO. 

Chem. Eel. Forms two oxides; Baryta, BaO, and 
Binoxide, Ba0 2 . Also compounds with the other non- 
metallic elements. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 105 

A. Baryta. BaO. 

Prep. Heat Nitrate of Baryta, to bright redness. 

Prop. A gray powder ; Sp. Gr. 4 ; slakes like lime, 
forming a hydrate; absorbs carbonic acid greedily; is 
caustic. 

Chem. Eel. Forms a series of permanent salts, of 
which the Chloride only is used in medicine. The 
soluble salts of Baryta are incompatible with the soluble 
sulphates, oxalates, and tartrates. 

Tests. The soluble salts of BaO, give a white precipi- 
tate with S0 3 , unaltered by N0 5 , or HC1. They are all 
poisonous. Antidote, the soluble Sulphates. 

Officinal Preparations, a. *BARII Chloridum — Chlo- 
ride of Barium. BaCl. 

Prep. By neutralizing HC1 with BaO,C0 2 . On the 
large scale, by decomposing the native Sulphate (Heavy 
Spar), by heating with Carbon (see Carbonate of Soda) ; 
the Sulphide of Barium formed is decomposed, by the ad- 
dition of HC1, into BaCl, and HS. 

Prop. Permanent white crystalline salt; taste bitter 
and disagreeable ; contains 2 eqs. water of crystallization, 
which it loses with decrepitation below 212°. Soluble in 
2 J parts cold water, and its weight at 222°, the boiling- 
point of a saturated solution ; also in diluted alcohol, but 
scarcely in absolute alcohol. Alcohol containing it, burns 
with a yellow flame. Fuses at a red heat. 

Med. Effects. Large doses, poisonous (see Baryta); 



106 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

moderate doses, alterative and anthelmintic. Used in 
carcinoma, scrofula, cutaneous diseases. Given generally 
in solution. 

b. *Liquor Barii Chloridi — Solution of Chloride of 
Barium. R. Barii Chlorid. §j ; Aq. destill. f §iij. M. 
et cola. Dose, gtt. v ; gradually increased. 

Incompat. 'Those of the soluble Chlorides, and Salts of 
Baryta, 

XVII. STRONTIUM. Sr. 43-84. 

Prep. In same manner as Ba, which it closely re- 
sembles. 

Rem. Forms Strontia, SrO, and Binoxide of Stron- 
tium, Sr0 3 . The former gives a series of salts, which 
give a red tinge to flame. They precipitate with the so- 
luble sulphates, but less completely than BaO. May be 
distinguished by Hydrofluosilicic Acid, which precipitates 
BaO, but forms a salt with SrO, very soluble in excess of 
acid. The preparations are not poisonous, and have been 
used in medicine with the same objects as those of Ba. 

XVIII. CALCIUM. Ca. 20. 

Prep. By means analogous to those of Ba, and Sr. 
Is a white metal, very easily oxidized ; forms CaO, Lime, 
and Ca0 2 , Binoxide of Calcium. The former only forms 
salts. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 107 

a. *Calx, Lime, CaO. 

Prep. By heating, in an open furnace, the Carbonate 
(limestone, chalk, &c). 

Prop, Grayish-white, solid ; taste, caustic, alkaline. 
Sp. Gr. 2-3, very refractory. Absorbs on exposure to the 
air, water and C0 2 , and falls to powder (air-slaked lime) ; 
combines with water, to form a hydrate (slaked lime). 
When mixed in excess with water, forms milfc of lime. 
Is sparingly soluble in water, and more so in cold than in 
hot water. Keaction, alkaline; is a strong base ; is caustic. 
The Chloride, the Carbonates and the Chlorinated Lime, 
are officinal. 

Incompatibles. Acids, acidulous salts, soluble sul- 
phates, tartrates, carbonates ; the metallic salts generally; 
the vegetable astringents. Is the antidote to Oxalic 
Acid. 

Test. Oxalic acid, gives a white precipitate in neutral 
or alkaline solutions. 

b. *LlQUOR Calcis — Lime Water. 

R. Calcis giv; Aa. Destill. Cong. j. Slake the Lime 
with a little of the water, then pour on the rest. Keep 
in well-stopped bottles over the insoluble excess of lime. 

Rem. Water at 60° dissolves about T ^g of Lime; one 
pint contains, at 60°, about 9 J grs.; heated, a portion of 
the Lime precipitates; the solution absorbs Carbonic Acid 
readily, and an insoluble carbonate precipitates. 

Med. Effects. Antacid, and the compounds formed by 



108 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

its union with the gastric acids, are astringent. Used in 
Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Dyspepsia, &c. ; externally as an 
astringent lotion. Dose, f §ss to giv. 
Incompat. Those of Lime. 

c. *Potassa cum Calce — Potctssa icith Lime — Vienna 
Paste. 

Prep. Is made by rubbing together equal parts of 
Lime zn&'IIi/drate of Potassa ; is deliquescent, but less so 
than the Caustic Potassa ; is employed in the same cases, 
and is a milder application. 

b. Carbonates. 

Carbonate of Lime occurs native as Chalk, Marble, Lime- 
stone, &c. j is obtained by precipitating Chloride of Cal- 
cium with a soluble carbonate. 

d. *Calcis Carbonas Pr^ecipitatus — Precipitated 
Carbonate of Lime. 

R. Liq. Calcii. Chlorid. Ovss; Sodce Carb. Ib.vi; Aq. 
Destill. q. s. Dissolve the Sodce Carb. in Ovi Aq. ; heat 
this solution, and that of the Calcii. Chlorid. , to the boil- 
ing-point, and mix them; allow the Carbonate to subside, 
wash it well, and dry on bibulous paper; this reaction is a 
double decomposition, Chloride of Sodium and Carbonate 
of Lime being formed. (CaCl and NaO,C0 2 = CaO,C0 3 
and NaCl.) 

Prop. An insoluble white powder, smooth, and entirely 
dissolved with copious effervescence in Muriatic Acid. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 109 

May be adulterated with CaO,S0 3? which is detected by 
thus treating it. 

e. *Creta Pr^eparata — Prepared Chalk. 

Prep. Is made by the levigation and elutriation of 
ordinary Chalk, by which the grosser and gritty particles 
are gotten rid of; generally prepared on the large scale. 

Prop. Found in conical masses, smooth, and entirely 
free from grit. 

Med. Effects. Those of Lime ; externally as a desiccat- 
ing and soothing application. Dose, gr. x to xxx. 

/. *Testa Pr^eparata — Prepared Oyster- Shells. 

Prep. Is made by preparing well-washed oyster-shells 
in the same manner as chalk ; does not differ from Greta 
Preparata, except in containing a little animal matter. 

c. Chlorides. 

g. *Calcii Chloridum — Cliloride of Calcium. CaCl. 

Prep. Is made by dissolving Carbonate of Lime in 
Hydrochloric Acid. CaO,CO a and HC1 = CaCl, and HO 
and C0 2 . 

Prop. When anhydrous is a whitish, hard, translu- 
cent substance, having a great attraction for moisture; 
hence used largely as a desiccating agent, when crystal- 
lized in frigorific mixtures; taste acrid, bitter; reaction 
slightly alkaline ; soluble in about -L- its weight of water, 
at 60° ; also in 10 parts anhydrous Alcohol. 

10 



110 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Incompat. Those of the Salts of Lime, and of Hydro- 
chloric Acid. 

Med. Effects. Tonic and alterative ; used in solution. 

h. *LlQUOR Calcii Chloridi — Solution of Chloride 
of Calcium. 

Prep. Made by dissolving Chloride of Calcium in its 
weight and a half of water, and filtering. 

Dose. Gtt. xxx to 3j ; in overdose, may produce symp- 
toms of irritant poisoning; antidotes, the carbonates or 
sulphates.- 

i. *Calx Chlorinata — Chlorinated Lime — Bleach- 
ing Powder — Chloride of Lime. CaO,C10 + CaCl. 

Prep. Made by the action of CI on HO,CaO ; should 
contain at least 25 per cent, of Chlorine. 

Prop. Grayish-white powder; taste hot, acrid, bitter, 
and astringent; smell characteristic; bleaches powerfully; 
speedily loses its chlorine when kept ; is decomposed on 
exposure to the air, absorbing C0 3 , which liberates CI; 
the same effect is produced by acids generally ; soluble in 
10 parts water ; heated gives off and some CI, and be- 
comes CaCl; its composition is uncertain, supposed to be: 
1. Mixture of Hypochlorite of Lime, and Chloride of Cal- 
cium; 2. Chloride of Lime; 3. Oxychloride of Calcium. 

Med. Effects. Not much used internally, the Chlo- 
rinated Soda being preferred ; used largely as a disinfec- 
tant, and as a wash in foul ulcers ; acts by the liberation 
of its Chlorine. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. Ill 

Incompat. Acids and Acidulous Salts, the Carbonates ; 
the neutral Metallic Salts ; those of Chlorine and Lime 
generally. 

d. Sulphate. CaO,S0 3 . 

Gypsum, Plaster of Paris, is found native. Is soluble 
in about 400 parts water, causing permanent hardness ; 
when anhydrous (Calcined Plaster), it forms, with water, 
a hydrate, which quickly hardens (sets) ; hence is largely 
used in taking casts ; heated above 300°, refuses to unite 
again with water ; is not used in medicine. 

The E. Phosphate of Lime, is used in medicine, officinal 
in Dub. Ph., in the form of Bone Phosphate of Lime ; it 
consists of 3CaO,P0 5 ; is insoluble; used in Scrofula, 
Phthisis, &c. 

XIX. MAGNESIUM. Mg. 12-67. 

Prep. By the reaction at a high heat of Sodium, with 
Chloride of Magnesium. 

Prop. White, malleable metal, fusible at a red heat ; 
not acted on sensibly by cold water; oxidized by hot water ; 
heated in the air, burns and forms Magnesia, MnO, 
which is its only oxide. 

A. *Magnesia, MnO, Calcined Magnesia. 

Prep. Made by heating Carbonate of Magnesia to 
a full red heat, in an open crucible ; the Carbonate loses 
its Carbonic Acid and water, and anhydrous Magnesia 



112 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

remains; may be precipitated as hydrate by the action of 
Caustic Alkali on its Sulphate. 

Prop. A nearly insoluble, light, white bulky powder, 
nearly insipid, fused only by the compound blowpipe ; it 
should not effervesce with acids. Dense Magnesia (Henry's, 
Husband's, &c.) is from i to | the bulk of ordinary Mag- 
nesia, and is less rough to the taste ; it may be produced, 
1. By trituration ; 2. By using a high heat during calcina- 
tion; 3. By packing the Carbonate closely in the crucible 
before heating ; 4. By heating the Carbonate, prepared by 
mixing hot concentrated solutions of *Sulphate of Mag- 
nesia and Carbonate of Soda (Burr); 5. By heating 
Chloride of Magnesium. 

Impurities. May contain C0 2 , when it will effervesce 
with Acids ; CaO, which will precipitate on the addition 
of Oxalate of Ammonia; or soluble Sulphates, which will 
precipitate on the addition of Chloride of Barium. 

Chem. Eel. With water, forms a hydrate, without ele- 
vation of temperature ; slowly attracts moisture and C0 2 
from the air ; reaction alkaline, and neutralizes acids ; the 
Carbonate, Sulphate, and Citrate are officinal. 

Tests. It precipitates from its salts as hydrate, by the 
Caustic Alkalies, and as Carbonate, by their Carbonates ; 
not with Carbonate of Ammonia, or the Bicarbonates ; a 
white crystalline precipitate with the soluble Phosphates, 
on the addition of a little Ammonia. 

Med. Effects. Antacid ; the salts formed are laxative ; 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 113 

from its low eq., has a high neutralizing power. The freshly 
prepared Hydrate is an antidote to *Arsenious Acid. 

Incompat. All Acids and Acidulous Salts. Neutral 
Metallic Salts. 

b. Carbonates. 

b. *Magnesi.e Carbonas — Carbonate of Magnesia. 
Magnesia Alba. 

Prep. On the large scale by double decomposition of 
Sulphate of Magnesia and Carbonate of Soda, Carbo- 
nate of Magnesia and Sulphate of Soda resulting, MnO, 
S0 3 and NaOC0 2 = MnOC0 2 , and NaO,S0 3 . Its compo- 
sition is not constant, being a mixture of Carbonate and 
Hydrate of Magnesia, 4 (MgO,C0 2 )+MgO,HO+6HO. 

Prop. White; nearly insoluble; smooth; nearly in- 
sipid ; inodorous ; solid; generally formed in small cubes; 
it is soluble to a certain extent in Aqua. Acid. Carbonici, 
forming the so-called Fluid Magnesia. It is decomposed 
by heat. 

Impurities. May contain Carbonate or Sulphate of 
Soda; Chloride of Sodium, Lime, Alumina, Iron ; which 
may be detected by their respective tests. 

Med. Effects. Those of ^Magnesia. The Carbonic 
Acid is liberated in the stomach, producing at times an 
agreeable stimulation, at others unpleasant eructations. 

Incompat. Those of MgO and of the Carbonates. The 
10* 



114 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Acids, and Acidulous Salts, Neutral Salts of the metals. 
The Alkalies, Baryta, Strontia. 

c. Sulphate. 

c. *Magnesije Sulphas — Sulphate of Magnesia, Ep- 
som Salt, MgO,S0 3 . 

Prep. Occurs native in certain caverns in the United 
States, and as an efflorescence in the soil. Also in cer- 
tain springs, and in sea-water (Bitterii), from which it is 
prepared by evaporation and careful crystallization. Made 
also of the native Dolomite (Carbonate of Lime and Mag- 
nesia), and from the native Silicious Hydrate. 

Prop. Transparent, inodorous, bitter, nauseous, neutral 
salt; crystallized in small prisms, containing 7 eq. of 
water of crystallization; soluble in an equal weight of 
water at 60° ; melt in their own water of crystallization, 
which they lose at a high heat, and fuse into an enamel. 

Impurities. Iron and Chloride of 3Iagnesium. 

Med. Effects. Mild cathartic. Dose, §ss to gi. 

Incompatibles. Those of the soluble Sulphates; the 
Alkalies, and Earths, and their Carbonates. 

"With Citric Acid (C^ELO^), Magnesia forms a Citrate, 
3 MgO (CJH.OJ, which is officinal as :— 

*Liquor Magnesia Citratis — Solution of Citrate of 
Magnesia. Purgative Mineral Water. 

R. Magnesice Carb. 3ii; Acid. Citric. 3viiss; Syrup. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 115 

Acid. Citric, f gij. ; Aquce q. s. Dissolve the Acid. Citric. 
in f§iv Aq., and add %i\ Magnes. Carb., previously 
rubbed with fgiii Aquce. When reaction has ceased, 
filter into a strong glass bottle of the capacity of f §xii, 
into which the Syr. Acid. Citric, has been previously in- 
troduced. Hub the remaining Magnes. Carb. with fgii 
Aq., and pour into the bottles ; cork tightly, secure with 
twine, and shake until clear. 

Rem. This solution is intended to be made extempo- 
raneously, and does not keep well. It may be made more 
permanent by an excess of Citric Acid. 

Med. Effects. An agreeable purgative, resembling 
lemonade, charged with Carbonic Acid. Dose, f gvi to xii. 

METALS OF THE EARTHS. 
XX. ALUMINUM. Al. 13-69. 

Prep. By passing the vapour of K or Na over Chlo- 
ride of Aluminum, A1 3 C1 3 . 

Prop. A brilliant metal, resembling silver; not oxi- 
dized by air, water, or acids, except boiling nitric acid. 

Chem. Pel. Forms a Sesquioxide Alumina, of which 
the Sulphate united with the Sulphate of Potassa is offi- 
cinal, as *Alumen — Alum. It is precipitated from its 
salts by the caustic alkalies as a gelatinous mass. Exists 
in clay. 



116 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

a. *Alumebt— Alum, Al 2 3 ,3S0 3 +KO,S0 3 . 

Prep. Is found native; made in several ways: 1. 
From the alum-stone, a native Alum ; combined with Hy- 
drate of Alumina; the latter is rendered insoluble by heat, 
and the Alum dissolved out. 2. From Aluminous Schist, 
which consists of a mixture of Iron Pyrites, FeS 2 , Alu- 
mina, Silica, &c. ; by heating and moistening, Oxygen is 
absorbed, the Sulphur converted into Sulphuric Acid, 
which combines with the Alumina, and Oxide of Iron. 
The two are separated by crystallization, and Sulphate of 
Potassa added to the Sulphate of Alumina. 

Chem. Relations. Alum, which is a double Sulphate 
of Alumina and Potassa, is the type of a large class of 
salts, having the same general formula. Thus we may 
substitute for the Potassa, — Soda, Lithia, Ammonia, Mag- 
nesia, the Protoxides of Iron and Manganese ; for the 
Alumina, the Sesquioxides of Iron, Manganese, or Chro- 
mium ; for the Sulphuric Acid, Selenic, Silicic, or Chromic 
Acid. The minerals Feldspar, Albite, Spodumene, and Pe- 
tal ite, are Alums of Silicic Acid, Si0 3 , with KO,NaO, and 
Lithia respectively. In some of these forms the proper- 
ties of the Alum do not differ from those of common, or 
Potash Alum. 

Prop. Transparent, crystalline, slightly efflorescent 
salt, of a sweetish, astringent taste, acid reaction. The 
crystals contain 24 eq. of water, which they lose at a 
high heat, forming b. *Alumen exsiccatum. They are 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 117 

soluble in 14 to 15 times their weight of cold, and three- 
fourths their weight of boiling water, from which the salt 
crystallizes on cooling. 

Impurities. Generally contains a little Iron. 

Med. Effects. Small doses, gr. v to x, astringent and 
antispasmodic. 

In large doses, gss, emetic and purgative. 

Externally astringent. 

Incompat. Those of the soluble Sulphates; the Al- 
kalies, their Carbonates, Lime Water, Magnesia, Tartrate 
of Potassa. 



METALS PROPER, WHOSE HIGHER 
OXIDES ARE ACIDS. 

XXI. MANGANESE. Mn. 27-67. 

Prep. By reducing Carbonate of Manganese by Car- 
bon at a high heat. 

Prop. Grayish-white metal, resembling some varieties 
of cast iron; hard, brittle, not magnetic; Sp. Gr. 8; rea- 
dily oxidizes ; fuses with difficulty. 

Chem. Eel Forms with 0, Protoxide, MnO ; Sesqui- 
oxide, Mn 2 3 ; Binoxide, Mn0 2 ; Manganic Acid, Mn0 3 ; 
Permanganic Acid, Mn 2 7 . The first two are basic ; the 
third, neutral; the two last, acid (p. 76). Of these, 
the Binoxide or Black Oxide is the most abundant and 
useful, and is used in preparing the salts of the metal ; 



118 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

when added to an acid, one eq. of is given off, and a salt 
of the Protoxide is formed. If a hydracid, this com- 
bines with the H, liberating the electro-negative consti- 
tuent. The Sesquioxide is a feeble base, and unimpor- 
tant. The Salts of the Protoxide are colourless, or of a 
pale rose colour. 

Med. Effects. As Manganese exists in minute quantity 
in the blood, it has been given in cases of anaemia, where 
iron had failed. The Sulphate is, in large doses, 5J to 3ij, 
a cholagogue cathartic. The Iodide, Carbonate, Phos- 
phate, and Tartrate have been employed. 

None of the preparations of Manganese are officinal. 



XXII. IRON (FERRUM). Fe. 28. 

Prep. Obtained from its Ores (Oxides, Carbonates), 
by reducing with C, at a high heat; also, by passing a 
current of H over its Oxide, at about a red heat (*Ferri 

PULVIS). 

Prop. Pure iron is a soft, malleable, ductile metal, of 
a whitish colour, pure metallic lustre, styptic taste, and 
sensible odour, when rubbed; Sp. G-r. 7*8; the most tena- 
cious of all metals ; possesses magnetic and welding pro- 
perties; combustible; burns in ordinary air when finely 
divided, or heated to whiteness, and with vivid scintil- 
lations in ; it is unaltered in dry air, and under water, 
deprived of air ; in moist air becomes covered with rust, 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 119 

which is a Hydrated Sesquioxide ; at a red heat, its 
surface becomes converted into the Black Oxide (Mag- 
netic Oxide, Fe 3 4 or FeO,Fe 2 O s ). It is the most abun- 
dant of all the metals ; found in most mineral and many 
vegetable and animal substances. 

Chem. Eel. Unites with most of the metals, and with 
all the non-metallic elements, except H ? and B. It forms 
with 0, 1. Protoxide, FeO, which may be obtained by 
precipitating a salt of the Protoxide with a Caustic Al- 
kali ; it forms a whitish Hydrate, losing its water, and 
becoming black, when boiled ; is attracted by the magnet ; 
exposed to the air, turns green, and ultimately brown, 
absorbing and becoming Sesquioxide ; it sometimes 
absorbs with such avidity as to take fire ; is powerfully 
basic. Its salts are generally of a delicate green colour, 
and nauseous, metallic taste; they absorb oxygen readily, 
becoming brown, from the formation of Sesquioxide. 2. 
Sesquioxide, Fe 2 3 , prepared by precipitating a salt of 
the Sesquioxide by Caustic Alkali, and igniting the 
Hydrate thus formed ; is of a red colour ; not attracted 
by the magnet; unaltered by heat; reduced by a current 
of Hydrogen, at a red heat, or by C, at a higher heat ; is 
feebly basic. Its salts, formed generally by oxidizing 
those of the Protoxide, have a reddish or brown colour, 
a styptic, astringent taste, and an acid reaction. 3. 
Black Oxide — Magnetic Oxide, Fe 3 4 , is most probably 
a combination of FeO,Fe 2 3 ; does not form salts. Ferric 



120 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Acid, Fe0 3 , has not been isolated; its Potassa salt forms 
a deep amethystine-red solution, which soon decomposes; 
it forms with Baryta, a deep crimson, insoluble, perma- 
nent salt. With Sulphur, Iron forms three Sulphides : 
1. Protosulphide, FeS, made by heating together two 
parts, by weight, of Iron and one of Sulphur ; is a black- 
ish, brittle substance; attracted by the magnet; of a 
decided odour of HS ; is used for the preparation of HS, 
by the addition of a dilute acid. 2. Bisulphide, Iron 
Pyrites, FeS 2 , and the 3. Magnetic Pyrites, Fe 2 S 7 , are found 
native ; by exposure to moist air, they absorb 0, becoming 
Sulphate of the Protoxide of Iron. Iron is officinal as 
metal, as Hydrated Sesquioxide, Nitrate, Sub- and Proto- 
carbonate, Sulphate, Phosphate, Sesquichloride, Iodide, 
Tartrate of Iron and Potassa, Citrate, Ferrocyanide, and 
Ammoniated Iron. 

Tests, With Salts of the Sesquioxide of Iron, to which 
the Protosalts may be converted by boiling with N0 5 . 
Ferrocyanide of Potassium, gives a deep blue preci- 
pitate (Prussian Blue). Tincture of Galls, an intense 
bluish black (Ink). Sulphocyanide of Potassium, a blood- 
red tinge. Salts of the Protoxide give with Ferricya- 
nide of Potassium, a light blue precipitate (TurnbulFs 
Blue). 

Incompat. The Alkalies, the Alkaline Carbonates, the 
Vegetable Astringents. 

Gen. Med. Effects. Iron exists in the blood, in which 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 121 

Liebig supposes it to act as a carrier of Oxygen and Car- 
bonic Acid, becoming Sesquioxide in the lungs, existing 
as such in the arteries, reduced to Protoxide in the capil- 
laries, and returned as Carbonate of the Protoxide by the 
veins. It is deficient in anaemia, and like diseases. Is 
employed as a tonic, and its salts are in addition astringent. 

a. As Metal. 

Officinal Forms, a. *Ferri Filum — Iron Wire. Used 
generally in making preparations from metallic iron. 

b. *Ferri Ramenta — Iron Filings. Should be pre- 
pared by filing a clean piece of iron, as those obtained at 
machine-shops are impure. Enter into combination with 
the acids of the stomach, forming soluble salts, with the 
evolution of H, which sometimes causes unpleasant eruc- 
tations. 

c. *Ferri Pulvis — Powder of Iron. Quevennes Iron. 
Iron by Hydrogen. 

Prep, by passing a current of H over Fe 2 3 , at a dull 
red heat; the H unites with the of the Fe 2 3 , to form 
water, leaving the Iron in a state of fine division. 

Prop. Tasteless, gray powder, dissolving rapidly, with 
effervescence of H, in dilute acids. Differs from *Ferri 
Ramenta only in being in a state of more minute divi- 
sion. Dose, gr. iii to vi. 

11 



122 medical chemistry. 

b. Oxide. 

d. Ferri OxiDUM Hydratum — Hydrated Sesquioxide 
of Iron, Fe 2 3 ,3HO. 

Ferri. Sulphat. giv; Acid. Sulphuric, f 3iijss ; Acid. 
Nitric. f3vi or q. s.j Liq. Ammonice q. s.; Aquae-, Oij. 

Prep. Dissolve the Sulphate of Iron in the water, and 
having added the Sulphuric Acid, boil the solution ; then 
add the Nitric Acid in small portions, boiling the liquid a 
minute or two after each addition, until the acid ceases to 
produce a dark colour ; filter the liquid, and when cool, 
add an excess of the Solution of Ammonia, stirring the 
mixture briskly ; wash the precipitate, until the washings 
cease to afford a precipitate with Chloride of Barium, 
and keep in well-stopped bottles, with sufficient water to 
cover it. 

Rem. The Protoxide of Iron in the Sulphate is, by the 
action of the Nitric Acid, converted into Sesquioxide, N0 2 
being given off, which, taking two of from the air, 
becomes N0 4 , producing the red fumes seen to arise; 
6FeO,S0 3 and N0 5 = 3(Fe 2 3 ,2 S0 3 ) and N0 2 : this is 
a basic salt : an equivalent of Sulphuric Acid is added, 
to make it neutral (see p. 76). 3(Fe 2 3 ,2S0 3 ) + S0 3 = 
3(Fe 2 3 ,3S0 3 ); this solution of the neutral sulphate of 
the Sesquioxide of Iron, Fe 2 3 ,3S0 3 , is a dark, reddish- 
brown, permanent liquid ; by the addition of Liq. Ammo- 
nice, soluble Sulphate of Ammonia is formed, and insoluble 
hydrated Sesquioxide of Iron precipitates, and is separated 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 123 

by filtration: Fe 2 3 ,3 S0 3 , and 3 NH 4 0,H0 =3NH 4 0, 
S0 3 and Fe 2 3 ,3 HO. 

Prop. A brownish pulpy mass, freely soluble in acids ; 
when long kept, undergoes a change, becoming crystalline, 
and losing one-half of its water ; its virtues as an antidote 
are then impaired ; it also quickly becomes crystalline, 
when frozen; immediately at 21° (F.) (Limberger); does 
not, however, then lose its water, as when long kept; 
although less soluble than the amorphous, is more so 
than that which has become crystalline, and less hydrated 
by long keeping (Wittstein) ; the best plan is to keep the 
solution of Fe 2 3 ,3S0 3 , and precipitate it as wanted ; if this 
be not at hand, the *Tinctura Ferri Chloridi may be 
treated in a similar manner by Liq. Ammonice, the hy- 
drated sesquioxide will precipitate, Fe 2 Cl 3 , and 3 NH 4 0, 
HO= 3 NH 4 C1 and Fe 2 3 ,3 HO. 

Med. Uses. Used sometimes as a tonic ; most valued as 
an antidote to *Arsenious Acid. (See Arsenic.) 

c. Nitrate. 

e. Liquor Ferri Nitratis — Solution of Nitrate of 
Iron. 

Prep. Is made by dissolving metallic Iron in Nitric 
Acid. 

R. Ferri fit. gj ; Acid. Nitric f §iij ; Aq. q. s. aa 
fgxxx. 



124 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

4 N0 5 and 2Fe = Fe 2 3 ,3 N0 5 and N0 3 ; the solution 
is therefore a neutral Nitrate of the Sesquioxide. 

Rem. As this solution is liable to change, depositing 
a Subnitrate of the Sesquioxide, it had better be prepared 
according to Procter's formula, which is, to add the Iron 
gradually to dilute N0 5 , filtering immediately after all the 
Iron has been thrown in and dissolved, heating the filtrate 
gently, carefully dropping in N0 5 , avoiding an excess, 
until a drop of the solution yields a red tinge, without a 
trace of black, with NH 4 : the object of this process is to 
avoid the formation of Protoxide. 

Prop. A transparent, wine-coloured liquid, with a very 
astringent, not caustic taste. 

Med. Effects. In addition to those of Iron generally, 
has been strongly recommended in Chronic Diarrhoea, 
unattended with ulceration of the mucous membrane of the 
intestines; is decomposed by most medicinal agents, and 
should not therefore be given in combination. 

d. Carbonates. 

/. *Ferri Subcarbonas — Subcarbonate of Iron — Pre- 
cipitated Carbonate of Iron. 

Prep. Is made by the double decomposition of Sulphate 
of Iron and Carbonate of Soda. 

R. Ferri. Sulphat. gviii; Sodce Carb. gix; Aq. 
Bull. Cong, j ; dissolve the Sulphate of Iron and Carbo- 
nate of Soda, each in Oiv of the water, and mix the solu- 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 125 

tions, stir them, allow the precipitate to subside, pour off 
the supernatant liquid, and wash the precipitate, wrap it 
in bibulous paper, and dry at a gentle heat. FeO,S0 3 and 
NaO,C0 2 U NaO.S0 3 and FeO,C0 2 . 

Prop. When first thrown down, is a pale, bluish pre- 
cipitate, of Hydrate of Protocarbonate of Iron, FeO,C0 2 HO; 
on exposure to the air, it rapidly absorbs O and loses C0 2 , 
becoming Sesquioxide, and retaining but a trace of C0 2 ; 
it is then a reddish-brown powder, insoluble in water, and 
soluble with difficulty in acids, except HC1 ; when it has 
been strongly heated, it is anhydrous, and is injured; the 
ordinary (hydrated) Subcarbonate may be used as an anti- 
dote to Arsenious Acid, in the absence of the hydrated 
Sesquioxide, but if it has been thoroughly heated, is use- 
less. 

Med. Uses. Besides its tonic effects, is used in large 
doses as an antispasmodic. 

Dose , gr. v to §ss. 

g. ^Pilul^g Ferri Carbonatis — Pills of the Carbo- 
nate of Iron. Vallet's Mass. 

R. Ferri Sidph. gviii 5 Sodce Carb. §x; Mel. Des- 
pum. §iij; Sacch. pidv. §ii; Aa. Bull. Oij ; Syrup. 
q. s. Dissolve the Sulphate of Iron and Carbonate of 
Soda, each in Oj of water, to which has been previously 
added fgj Syrup; mix the two solutions, pour into a bottle, 
closely stopped, just large enough to hold them, and allow 
the precipitate to subside : pour off the supernatant liquor, 
11* 



126 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

wash the precipitate with water sweetened with Syrup 
(f gj to Oj), until the washings have no longer a saline 
taste; place it upon a flannel cloth to drain, and after- 
wards express as much water as possible ; then immediately 
mix with the honey and sugar, by means of a water-bath ; 
evaporate with constant stirring to a pilular consistence. 

Rem. The decomposition is the same in this process as 
the last, the hydrated Protocarbonate is, however, protected 
from further change, by the use of sugar and honey. 

Prop. A soft, pilular mass, black on the surface, when 
kept, but whitish within ; when well made, is wholly and 
freely soluble in acids : it keeps well. 

Med. Uses. One of the least offensive and most efficient 
of the ferruginous preparations. 

Dose, gr. iii to vi. 

h. *Mistura Ferri Composita — Compound Mixture 
of Iron — Griffith's Antihectic Mixture. 

R. 1. Myrrh. Jj ; 2. Potass. Carb. gr. xxv; 3. Ferri 
Sulpli. Pulv. 9j ; 4. Spt. Lavand. f^ss; 5. JSaech. Jj ; 
6. Aq. Rosar. f gviiss. 

Prep. Rub 1 with 6 gradually added; add, then, 4, 5, 
2, and lastly 3 ; pour the mixture immediately into a glass 
bottle, to be kept well stopped. 

Rem. The KO,C0 2 and FeO,S0 3 react, to form FeO, 
C0 2 and KO,S0 3 ; the excess of KO,C0 2 forms a soapy 
compound with the Myrrh ; the mixture is therefore an 
emulsion, containing besides the vehicles, Protocarbonate 



INORGANIC CHEMISTR7. 127 

(gradually becoming Subcarbonate) of Iron, Sulphate of 
Potassa, Carbonate of Potassa, Myrrh, and Spts. of Laven- 
der. It should be prepared when wanted. 

Med. Effects. Those of Iron and Myrrh. Dose, f gj to 

i. *Pilul^3 Ferri Composita — Compound Iron Pill. 

R. 1. Myrrhce Pulv. 3ii ; 2. Sodce Carl.) 3. Ferri 
Sidphat. aa 3j ; Syrup, q. s. 

Prep. Rub 1 with 2, add 3, and again rub; lastly, 
beat with 4, and form a mass, to be divided into eighty 
pills. 

Rem. Those on the last preparation will apply to this. 
The pills change rapidly, and should be prepared when 
wanted. Dose, ii to vi. 

e. Sulphate. FeO,S0 3 . 

h. *Ferri Sulphas — Sulphate of (the Protoxide of) 
Iron — Green Vitriol. 

Prep. Is obtained on the large scale by the spontaneous 
oxidation of Iron Pyrites, FeS 2 : this is impure ; for medi- 
cinal use, it is prepared by dissolving pure iron wire in 
dilute Sulphuric Acid, adding a slight excess of acid, filter- 
ing with as little contact of air as possible, and crystal- 
lizing. 

Prop. When pure, is in bluish-green, transparent crys- 
tals ; styptic taste ; acid reaction ; soluble in 2 parts cold, 
and | boiling water; the crystals contain 7 eq. water of 



128 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

crystallization ; 6 of which they lose by heat (Ferri Sul- 
phas Exsiccatum of the Ed. Ph.) ; exposed to the air, be- 
comes green, and finally covered with a brownish efflorescence 
of Subsulphate of the Sesquioxide ; its solution is a pale 
green, becoming dark from absorption of 0. 

Med. Effects. Tonic and astringent; should be dried 
before making into pills. Dose, gr. i to v. 

Incompat. Those of Sulphuric Acid, and the salts of 
Iron generally. 

f. Phosphate. 

I. *Ferri Phosphas — Phosphate of Iron. 2FeO, 
H0,P0 5 . 

Prep. Is made by double decomposition of ^Phosphate 
of Soda (6 parts by weight), and Sulphate of Iron (5 
parts by weight); Sulphate of Soda and Phosphate of Iron 
result, 2NaO,HO,P0 5 , and 2(FeO,S0 3 ) = 2FeO,HO,P0 5 
and 2(NaO,S0 3 ) ; the insoluble Phosphate is filtered 
from the solution of the Sulphate, washed and dried; 
it is a tribasic Phosphate of the Protoxide of Iron. 

Prop. Bright, slate-coloured powder, insoluble in water, 
but soluble in acids, which decompose it ; it may be dis- 
solved unchanged in Metaphosphoric (Monohydrated Phos- 
phoric) Acid, HO,P0 5 . 

Med. Effects. Those of its constituents. Dose, gr. v 
to x. 



inorganic chemistry. 129 

g. Chloride. 

m. *TlNCTURA Ferri OHLORIDI — Tincture of the Chlo- 
ride of Iron — Muriated Tincture of Iron, 

Prep. Is made by dissolving Ferri Suhcarb. (Ifess) in 
Acid. Muriatic. (Oj), and adding Alcohol (Oii). 

Rem. As the *Ferri Subcarb. is in the main a ses- 
quioxide, with but little C0 2 , the reaction may be given 
thus : Fe 2 3 and 3 HC1= Fe,Cl 3 and 3 HO ; the Sesqui- 
chloride thus formed is dissolved in the Alcohol; the 
preparation is therefore an alcoholic solution of the Sesqui- 
chloride of Iron. 

Prop. A clear, reddish liquid, with a pleasant aethereal 
odour, and an agreeably acid astringent taste ; it is not 
prone to spontaneous decomposition. 

Med. Effects. Externally, styptic and astringent; inter- 
nally, tonic and astringent ; used internally in vesical af- 
fections, gleet, spasmodic stricture, hemorrhages, leucor- 
rhoea, anaemia, &c. ; has been used as a remedy in erysipe- 
las and yellow fever ; the aqueous solution has been used 
as an injection in aneurism; is one of the most eligible 
and efficient of the preparations of Iron. 

Incompatible^. The stronger Acids, Alkalies, Alkaline 
Carbonates, Nitrate of Silver, Vegetable Astringents, and 
Mucilage of Gum Arabic; Albumen is instantly coagulated 
by it. 

n. *Ferrum Ammoniatum — Ammoniated Iron — Am- 
monio-chloride of Iron. 



130 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Prep. R. Ferri Subcarb. §iii; Acid Muriatic f§x; 
mix, digest for two hours, and add Amnion. Muriat. flbiiss, 
dissolved in Aa. Destill. Oiv ; filter, and evaporate to dry- 
ness : is a mixture of Sesquichloride of Iron and Chloride 
of Ammonium. 

Prop. Crystalline grains, of a fine orange-reddish 
colour, and styptic taste ; is deliquescent; freely soluble 
in water and alcohol. 

Med. Effects. Those of its constituents. Dose, gr. iv 
to xii. 

h. Iodides. 

o. *Ferri Iodidum — Iodide of Iron. 

Prep. Is made by direct union of the elements. 

Iron Wire (§j) is added gradually to Iodine (^ij); 
mixed in Distilled Water (Oj), with the application of a 
gentle heat, until the liquid acquires a greenish colour. 
It is then filtered, the filter washed with boiling, distilled 
water (Oss), and the solution carefully evaporated, in an 
iron vessel, over a water-bath, to dryness. It must be 
kept in a well-stopped bottle. 

Prop. A greenish-black, crystalline solid; very deli- 
quescent; styptic, chalybeate taste; is soluble in water 
and alcohol; decomposes spontaneously, when exposed to 
the air, Sesquioxide of Iron being formed, and Iodine 
liberated. 

Med. Effects. Possesses the therapeutic properties of 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 131 

Iodine and Iron, and is hence largely used where these 
agents are indicated. Also employed as an astringent 
externally. Dose, gr. j to viii. Being prone to decom- 
pose and inconvenient to dispense, it is used generally in 
the form of the 

p. *LlQ. Ferri Iodidi — Solution of the Iodide of 
Iron. Is made by a process essentially the same as the 
last, save that the solution is not evaporated to dryness, 
and sugar is added to protect the salt from decomposition. 

(oj) I ron Wire is gradually added to (§ij) Iodine, dif- 
fused in (f §v) Distilled Water, gently heated, until com- 
bination takes place. The solution is filtered into a 
bottle containing (§xii) Sugar, and Distilled Water poured 
on to the filter, until the contents of the bottle measure 
f ^xx. The bottle is shaken until the sugar is dissolved. 
A little iron wire placed in the bottle assists the sugar in 
preventing change. The solution contains 7 J gr. of solid 
Iodide to f 3j. ■ . 

Prop. Transparent liquid; pale greenish colour; 
sweetish, styptic, astringent taste. 

Med. Effects. Those of the Iodide ; should be given 
alone an dt largely diluted; it should be dropped into a 
glass vessel, as it is decomposed by the metals. 

Dose, gtt. x to xxx. 

a. *Pilulj3 Ferri Iodidi — Pills of the Iodide of 
Iron. 

R. Ferri Sulphat. 3j ; Potass. Iodid. 9iv; Traga- 



132 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

ca nth. Pule, gr. x: SaccJi. Puh:. Jss. with syrup, to form 
a mass to be divided into forty pills. 

Rem. The FdO,S0 3 and KI, react to form KO.SCL 
and Fel. The pills contain, therefore, besides the exci- 
pients, Sulphate of Potassa and Iodide of Iron ; rapidly 
decompose. Each pill contains about gr. iss of the 
Iodide of Iron. 

i. Organic Compounds. 

r. *Ferri et Potass-E Tartras — Tartrate of Iron 
and Potassa. Is made by saturating the *Bitartrate 
oe Potassa with Sescjuioxide of Iron. The Bitartrate 
is mixed with water and heated to 140° and kept at that 
temperature, *Hydrated Sesquioxide of Irox is then 
added as long as it dissolves; the solution filtered, evapo- 
rated, and spread upon plates of glass or porcelain to dry. 
KCKHO.T and Fe,0 3 = KO.Fe,0 3 T and HO. 

Prop. Transparent, ruby-red scales : slightly chaly- 
beate taste; soluble in about -4 parts water. 

Mt ; : . Effects. Those of Iron generally. Is sometimes 
preferred, from its slight taste. Dose gr. x to 5^s. 

s. Ferri Citras — Citrate of Iron. t 

Is made by dissolving *Hydrated Sesquioxide oe 
Iron in a solution of *Citric Acid, kept at 150® to 
saturation; the solution is then treated as in the last pre- 
paration. 

Prop. Resembles the last preparation ; the scales are 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 133 

of a lighter colour, and less soluble, and sapid ; contains 
about 34 per cent, of Fe 2 3 . 

Med. Effects. Those of Iron generally; is an agreeable 
preparation. Dose gr. v to 3j. 

A Citrate of Iron and Quintet 7 not officinal, is much 
used. It is prepared by dissolving gj Quinia (recently 
precipitated), Jij Citric Acid, Jv Citrate of Iron, in fgxii 
Distilled Water, constantly stirring and keeping below the 
boiling-point. The solution is filtered and treated as 
above. 

t. *Ferri Ferrocyanuretum — Ferrocyanuret (ferro- 
cyanide) of Iron — Prussian Blue. Fe 4 Cfy 3 ? 

Prep. Is generally prepared on the large scale; is 
formed when Ferrocyanide of Potassium is added to a 
salt of the Sesquioxide of Iron.- 

Prop. Deep blue, tasteless, inodorous, insoluble 
powder. 

Med. Effects. Tonic, antiperiodic, antispasmodic. 

Dose gr. iii to 3j. 

XXIII. CHROMIUM. Cr. 28-15. 

Nat. Sources. Exists native as Oxide, and as native 
Chromate of Lead. Is obtained by reducing the Oxide 
byC. 

Prop. Hard, grayish-white, brittle metal; Sp. Gr. 
5-9 ; very difficult of fusion, and does not oxidize readily. 

12 



134 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Gen. Chem. Rel. Resembles closely Manganese and 
Iron; with 0, forms Protoxide, Cr,0; JSesquioxide, Cr a 3 . 

a. Chromic Acid, Cr0 3 — Perchromic Acid, Cr 2 7 . 
Chromic Acid is prepared by the action of strong HO, 
S0 3 upon Bichromate of Potassa. It crystallizes in bril- 
liant red prisms j very deliquescent, and soluble in water. 
It has been used in medicine as an escharotic. It rapidly 
dissolves organic matter, and is a powerful oxidizing 
agent. Chromate of Lead is used in the arts as a paint, 
known as Chrome Yellow. It is poisonous, but no case 
has been recorded of its effects on the human subject. 
Antidotes, albumen, flour. 

b. Bichromate of Potassa, KO,2Cr0 3 , possesses the 
properties of Cr0 3 , but in a milder degree. It is used as 
an escharotic, and as an oxidizing agent. It is officinal 
in the Dublin Pharmacopoeia. Internally, in large doses, 
is an irritant poison. Antidotes : mild alkalies, demul- 
cents. Has been used in small doses (gr. J, gradually 
increased) in secondary syphilis. None of the other prepa- 
rations of Chromium are used in medicine. Workmen 
engaged in manufactures, where it is used, are liable to 
painful ulcerations. 

XXIV. TIN (STANNUM). Sn. 58-82. 

Nat. Sources. Native oxide, is obtained by reduction 
with C. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 135 

Prop. Brilliant, silver-white, soft, malleable metal. 
Sp. Gr. 7*3. When bent, or twisted, emits a peculiar 
sound — the cry of tin. Fuses at 442°; oxidizes with dif- 
ficulty below its melting-point, hence largely used to pro- 
tect iron surfaces ; dissolves in HC1, and is oxidized by 
N0 5 . 

Gen. Chem. Eel. Forms three oxides : two of which 
protoxide, SnO, and Binoxide, Sn0 2 , act either as acids, or 
bases, and a sesquioxide, Sn 2 3 . The protochloride, made 
by dissolving the metal in hot HC1, is used as a reducing 
agent ; and as such, as a test for ^Bichloride of Mer- 
cury. 

Off. Prep. But one preparation of tin is officinal : its 
powder. 

a. *Pulvis Stanni — Powder of Tin. Is made by 
stirring melted tin, while cooling, until it is reduced to 
powder, which is passed through a sieve. 

Med. Effects. Anthelmintic. Dose, §ss, in syrup, or 



XXV. BISMUTH. Bi. 70-95. 

Nat. Sources. Found native, and as oxide. 

Prop. Brittle, highly crystalline, reddish-white metal. 
Sp. Gr. 9*9 ; melts at 500° ; burns, or volatilizes in strong 
heat. 

Chem. Eel. Forms three oxides : Teroxide (basic), 



136 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Bi0 3 ; Peroxide, BiO 4 ; and Bismuthic Acid, Bi0 5 . The 
second of these may be regarded as a union of the first 
and last (Bi0 3 Bi0 5 = 2Bi0 4 ). The metal dissolves in 
nitric acid ; 8 parts, with 5 lead, and 3 tin, forms fusible 
alloy, which melts below 212°. The nitrate, thrown into 
water, is decomposed, a white precipitate resulting — the 
subnitrate, which is officinal. Its salts are easily distin- 
guished by their decomposition, when added to water, and 
by the blackening effects of HS. 

Offi. Prep. a. *Bismuthi Subnitras — Subnitrate of 
Bismuth. R. Bismuth gj ; Acid. Nitric, f ^ij ; Aa. Destill. 
q. s. The bismuth, in fragments, is dissolved in the nitric 
acid, with the evolution of red fumes (Bi and 4N0 5 = 
Bi0 3 ,3N0 5 , and N0 2 ). The nitrate, added to water, 
throws down the Subnitrate. The water acts as a 
base to part of the N0 5 , which leaves the oxide; the 
nitrate thus becomes basic, and insoluble. The composi- 
tion of the precipitate is not constant, but is generally 
Bi0 3 N0 5 + 2HO. 

Prop. Tasteless, inodorous, white, slightly soluble, 
heavy powder ; dissolves freely in strong acids ; alkalies 
dissolve it sparingly. It sometimes contains Arsenic. Is 
much used as a cosmetic ; but blackens upon exposure to 
Hydrosulphuric Acid. 

Med. Effects. Tonic, antispasmodic. Dose, gr. v to 3j. 
Externally, sedative, astringent. Used, suspended in 
water, as an injection in gonorrhoea, or leucorrhoea. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 137 



XXVI. ARSENIC. As. 75. 

Nat. Sources. Found native — as sulphides (orpiment, 
realgar), and in combination with iron, nickel, and cobalt. 
Is obtained from Arsenious Acid, by reduction with C. 

Prop. Steel-gray, brittle, crystalline metal ; very bril- 
liant, when recently broken, but rapidly tarnishing ; when 
rubbed, or heated, exhales a peculiar odour; Sp. Gr. 5-8. 
Heated to 357°, volatilizes without fusion ; and if air be 
present, oxidizes to Arsenious Acid. 

Chem. Eel. Forms three oxides, two of which are 
acids — Suboxide, AsO (?) ; *Arsenious Acid, As0 3 , and 
Arsenic Acid, As0 5 . The latter is obtained from the 
former, by boiling to dryness with nitromuriatic acid ; is 
a white substance, having powerfully acid properties. It 
is soluble in water, and gives a brick-red precipitate with 
Nitrate of Silver ; with Hydrogen,^ Arsenic forms AsH 2 , 
solid Arsenide of H ; and AsH 3 , Arsenetted Hydrogen, a 
gas. Three Sulphides, Kealgar, AsS 2 ; Orpiment, AsS 3 , 
and Pentasulphide, AsS 3 . It combines also with the 
other non-metallic elements. The Metal, Arsenious Acid, 
the Iodide of Arsenic, and the Arsenite of Potassa, are 
officinal. 

Tests. See Arsenious Acid. 

Gen. Med. Effects. The preparations of Arsenic are 
tonic, alterative, antispasmodic, and antiperiodic. 

Officinal Forms, a. * Arsenicum — Arsenic. Is only 
12* 



138 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

used for making the *Iodide, and the *Iodide of Arsenic 
and Mercury (Donovan's Solution). 

a. Oxide. 

b. *Acidum Arseniosum — Arsenious Acid. White- 
Arsenic, Arsenic, Rats-bane. Sublimed Arsenious Acid, 
in masses, U. S. P. It is obtained, on the large scale, by 
roasting the ores which contain the metal; after which it 
is purified by sublimation. 

Prop. Is found in two distinct varieties : 1. Transpa- 
rent, or Vitreous variety, is a transparent, colourless glass. 
Sp. Glr. 3*2 to 3-8. Is more soluble than the opaque 
variety, into which it gradually passes, upon exposure to 
the air. 2. The opaque variety is of a milk-white colour, 
slightly heavier than the transparent, into which it passes 
by long boiling. Arsenious Acid dissolves sparingly in 
cold water ; 1 part dissolving in from 50 to 480 parts of 
water. In boiling water, both varieties are equally so- 
luble; 1 part dissolving in from 7*72 to 24 parts. The 
boiling solution deposits the greater part upon cooling; 
but retains more than if the acid were simply added to 
cold water — about 1 in 30. The solution has an austere, 
sweetish taste. The solid acid sublimes at 425°, giving 
no garlicky odour, unless in the presence of reducing 
agents; it condenses on a cold surface, in octohedral 
crystals (very rarely in right rhombic crystals). 

Adidterations. When in powder, may be adulterated 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 139 

with chalk, or flour. Should be entirely sublimed by 
heat. 

Med. Effects. Those of the preparations of Arsenic 
generally. Dose, gr. T J g to y 1 ^, in pill or solution. 

Externally, a powerful escharotic ; there is danger of its 
absorption when thus used. 

Toxicological Effects. Depend upon the quantity ; in 
large doses, the symptoms are those due to a violent irri- 
tant, and vary in different cases, the nervous system being 
often affected; they appear in from one minute to ten hours; 
death ensues, in fatal cases, in from 2} hours to 3 days; 
the minimum quantity necessary to destroy life at a single 
dose, is four grains ; cases have recovered, after taking an 
ounce. Post-mortem examination reveals inflammation, 
ulceration, and gangrene of the stomach and intestines ; 
in small doses long continued, or after large doses from 
which death has not resulted, there is irritation and itch- 
ing of the eyes, eyelids, conjunctivitis, oedema, irritability 
of the stomach, eczematous eruption, desquamation of the 
cuticle, loss of the hair, emaciation, salivation, and para- 
lysis ; the symptoms have been mistaken for those of 
cholera, perforation of the intestine, gastritis, &c. 

Antidotes. 1. Hydrated Sesquioxide of Iron, it should 
be freshly precipitated and freely given, a tablespoonful of 
the magma every 5 or 10 minutes, until the urgent 
symptoms are relieved ; it acts, by giving a portion of 
to the Arsenious Acid, converting it into Arsenic A., which 



140 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

forms an insoluble basic compound with the Protoxide of 
Iron, 2 Fe 2 3 and As0 3 == 4 FeO, As0 5 . 

2. In the absence of this, the *Ferri Subcarb. may be 
given, but is often inert, from having been overheated. 

3. Magnesia, recently and not too highly calcined, or 
recently precipitated, has been found efficient. 

Tests. A. When solid. 1. Heat to redness in a glass 
tube, closed at one end with fragments of charcoal ; the 
As0 3 is reduced, the metallic arsenic sublimed, and forms 
the arsenical mirror or ring in the tube. By breaking the 
tube, and allowing free access of air, the metal is oxidized 
again into As0 3 , and may be submitted to other tests ; 
the octohedral crystals of As0 3 may be seen in the second 
sublimate ; the mirror must be distinguished from that 
produced by Antimony (see Test 6). 

2. Arsenious Acid thrown upon coals, or other reducing 
agents, exhales a peculiar garlicky odour, which is not 
perceived when it is sublimed from a clean surface ; it is 
probably due to the formation of suboxide AsO. 

b. In solution. 3. Ammonio-Nitrate of Silver gives a 
rich yellow precipitate of Arsenite of Silver, soluble in 
excess of Ammonia, and in Nitric, Tartaric, Acetic, and 
Citric Acid, but not in Caustic Potash or Soda ; a solution 
of an alkaline phosphate precipitates yellow, with Nitrate 
of Silver, and a dilute solution of Phosphoric Acid with 
the Ammonio-Nitrate. It is discriminated by the appli- 
cation of the other tests. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 141 

4. Amnion io-Sulphate of Copper, a brilliant yellowish- 
green precipitate of Arsenite of Copper (Scheele's Green), 
soluble in acids, and in excess of Ammonia, but not in 
Potash or Soda; Acetic and Malic Acids give also green 
precipitates with the Ammonio-Sulphate of Copper, as do 
certain complex organic mixtures (Taylor). 

5. Hydrosulphuric Acid gives a golden yellow precipi- 
tate (Orpiment, AsS 3 ), soluble in alkalies ; the solution 
should be, therefore, slightly acidulated before trial ; other 
metals (Antimony, Tin, Uranium), give somewhat similar 
precipitates; they are distinguished by their behaviour 
with the other tests. 

6. Marsh's Test. Add the suspected liquid to pure Zinc, 
and dilute S0 3 , Arsenetted Hydrogen (AsH 3 ) is generated; 
may be known by its odour, its violet-coloured flame, and 
by the metallic stain deposited upon a cold, white surface ; 
or the gas may be passed through a long tube drawn out, 
heated at its centre; the metal deposits as in Test 1, and 
may be further examined. 

Antimonetted Hydrogen, SbH 3 ?, gives similar spots 
from the reduction of the metal; they may be distin- 
guished, 1. By Nitric Acid, which converts the metallic 
Arsenic into As0 5 , which is soluble, and gives a brick-red pre- 
cipitate with Nitrate of Silver, while Antimony is converted 
into insoluble Antimonic Acid. 2. The spot is heated to 
500° by an oil-bath; if Arsenic, it disappears; if Antimony, 
remains. 3. Hypochlorite of Soda dissolves Arsenical 



142 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

spots, but does not affect those of Antimony. 4. Tincture 
of Iodine instantly dissolves Arsenic spots, leaving, on 
spontaneous evaporation, a lemon-yellow spot. Antimony 
is not immediately altered on evaporation ; is converted 
after a time into orange-coloured Iodide. 5. Vapour of 
Phosphorous "Acid (P0 3 ) causes the disappearance of As 
spots in 4 or 5 hours ; Sb spots remain a fortnight, but 
finally disappear. 

7. Reinsch's Test. A bright slip of copper, or fine cop- 
per gauze, is boiled in the suspected solution, previously 
acidulated with HC1 ; the metal precipitates upon the cop- 
per, from which it may be scraped, or volatilized and sub- 
mitted to other tests ; this process has these advantages : 
1. Will act in the presence of organic matter ; 2. Gives 
the metal in condition to be submitted to all the other 
tests. 

Appreciation of these Tests. No single test is to be 
relied upon ; and wherever practicable, all should be 
applied. The relative delicacy of the tests is given by 
Devergie, as follows : Ammonio Sulphate of Copper, 5,200; 
Sulphuretted Hydrogen, 200,000 ; Ammonio-Nitrate of 
Silver, 400,000. By the latter, the ^tf to the T otjoi) 
of a grain may be rendered evident, if dissolved in but a 
drop or two of water ; in one fluid-drachm of water, it de- 
tected the T ^3 of a grain. Marsh's Test will detect, accord- 
ing to Danger and Flandin, the 5000000 P ar ^ °^ the liquid 
examined; according to Signoret, the ooootJoooo* Vil- 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 143 

lain states that one grain will give, on an average, 226 
metallic deposits, of an average, diameter of y 1 ^ of an 
inch, or will detect about the T g Jo o °^ a g ra i n « Reinsch's 
Test will detect, when the Arsenic forms the 90^00 °^ tne 
liquid, or the 4 ^00 °^ a g ra i n (Taylor). 

Organic matter interferes with all these tests, but least 
so with Reinseh's ; it renders the liquid tests useless, and 
causes much frothing with Marsh's Test; it may be removed 
by straining, filtration, and the use of oxidizing agents, as 
strong sulphuric or chromic acids, incineration, &c. For 
the details of the manipulations, the student is referred to 
the works on General Chemistry and Toxicology. 

Medico-legal Points. It is important to estimate the 
quantity taken ; to test all reagents carefully before using ; 
to take every precaution against the sources of fallacy 
indicated. Arsenic sometimes exists in candles, paper, 
vinegar ; in the soil of cemeteries ; may be detected in the 
tissues, after many years ; does not exist normally in the 
body, as has been supposed ; its use in medicine, in paint- 
ing (Orpiment Realgar, Scheele's Green), must be borne in 
mind. Poisoning may happen from its long-continued 
use in minute quantities ; by absorption from its external 
application ; by Arsenetted Hydrogen ; or by the Kakodyl 
compounds. 

b. Iodide. 

c. *Arsenici Iodidum — Iodide of Arsenic (Asl 3 ). Is 



144 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

made by intimately mixing (5J) Metallic Arsenic, (Jv) 
Iodine, introducing the mixture into a flask or tube, and 
applying gentle heat, until combination takes place. 

Prop. An orange-red crystalline solid, entirely solu- 
ble in water, and volatilized by heat. 

Med. Effects. Alterative ; dose, gr. i. Externally, in 
ointment, gr. iij to gj Adipis. Principally used in pre- 
paring the *Liq. Arsenici et Hydrarg. Iodid., or 
Donovan's Solution. See Mercury.. 

c. With Potassa. 

d. *Liquor Potass^ Arsenitis — Solution of the 
Arsenite of Potassa — Fowlers Solution. 

Is made by boiling equal parts of Arsenious Acid and 
Carbonate of Potassa (aa gr. lxiv) in Distilled Water 
(f gxii), until dissolved, adding Spirit of Lavender (f gss) 
and Distilled Water (q. s. ad. Oj). KO,C0 2 and As0 3 = 
KO,As0 3 and C0 2 . It contains gr. ss to f 3j. The Spt. 
Lavand. is added to give taste and colour, so as to avoid 
mistakes. 

Med. Effects. Those of Arsenious Acid generally. It 
is the preparation of Arsenic most employed. 

Dose gtt. v to xv. 

Tox. Effects. Those of Arsenious Acid. The usual 
antidotes are not active, unless combined with an acid, so 
as to liberate the As0 3 . The antidote employed is the 



I X R G A X I C C H E M I S T R Y. 145 

Sesq ride of I\ 

by it are rare. 



XXVII. ANTIMONY. Sb. 12? 

Xat. Sot rets. Found principally as Sulphide, from 
which the metal (ReguJui ),ya y\ '^ obtaine 

ting. 
Prop. A brittle, brilliant^ bluish-white metal; lamel- 

lated texture: Bp. Gr. 6-7: melts just below a red heat; 
boils and volatilizes :..: i little ^.'::::: strongly heated 

burns with a white flame, giving off white fumes >:i Ter- 
oxide >b.O : \ 

Chem. Bel. Forms four Ox::'}?. mm Suboxide! >b.Q 4 ; 
Teroxii-e. Sb0 3 ; Antunonous Acid, SbO, : Antiiu:^:: 
Acid, Sb0 5 ; with H. solid Antimonide of H? and Anti- 
monetted Hydrogen ^SbH 3 ?); with S. Terseephide, 
SbS s . Peri \ > : :.S,. a Sulphur Acid Golden Si. 1 .- 

phur)) with CI. Terchloripe. SbClg, and Pentachlo- 
ride, SbCL. The Terchloride Butter of Antimom is 
made by dissolving the metal ;: Tersulphide in HC1 ; is 
decomposed on the addition of water, throwing down a 
white precipitate, the Oxyehloride. SbC10 3 ?. or SbCl 3 $bO s 
'/ A\ ;:. . >~itrio Acid :<xidizes the metal to 
insoluble Antimonic Acid, 

Tests. Hydrc sulphate of Ammonia gives, with a soluble 
salt of 8b, an orange-red precipitate, soluble in excess, 

13 



146 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

and again precipitated by an acid, also in HC1, which 
solution precipitates on the addition of water. 

A. Sulphides. 

Officinal Forms. a. *Antimonii Sulphuretum — 
Sulphur et (Sulphide) of Antimony — Native Sulphuret of 
Antimony, purified by fusion. 

Prop. Is a Tersulphide of Antimony, SbS 3 . Brilliant 
steel gray, striated, brittle masses, soluble in HC1 by the 
aid of heat, with the evolution of HS, forming the Ter- 
chloride. SbS 3 and 3HC1 == HC1 3 and HS. Is rarely used 
in medicine. 

b. *Antimonii Sulphuretum Pr^ecipitatum — Pre- 
cipitated Sulphuret (Sulphide) of Antimony. 

Is made by boiling SbS 3 with KO, which throws down 
Kermes' Mineral, a variable mixture of Hydrated Ter- 
sulphide with Oxysulphide of Sb ; and a little Sulphide 
of Potassium ; dilute S0 3 is added to the mother liquor, 
which throws down Golden Sulphur Sb0 3 and SbS 3 ? or 
SbS 5 . The preparation is a variable compound, SbS 3 , 
Sb0 3 , or SbS 3 ,SbS 5 , a union of a Sulphur acid with a 
Sulphur base. 

Prop. Reddish-brown, insoluble powder; tasteless 
when pure ; soluble in HC1, with evolution of HS. 

Med. Effects. Alterative, diaphoretic, and emetic. 



inorganic chemistry. 147 

b. Tartrate. 

c. *Antimonii et Potass.se Tartras — Tartrate of 
Antimony and Potassa — Tartar Emetic. 

Prep. Is generally prepared on the large scale. Is 
made by boiling the Oxychloride (Powder of Algaroth, 
Sb0 3 ,SbCl 3 ) with Bitartrate of Potassa. The Oxychloride 
(obtained by the addition of SbCl 3 to water) is decom- 
posed during the boiling into Sb0 3 and HC1. The latter 
combines with Iron and other impurities in the KO,HOT, 
while the former neutralizes the excess of T, giving a 
double salt. Sb0 3 and KO,HOT = KO,Sb0 3 T+HO, 
which crystallizes out. 

Prop. Transparent, colourless, slightly efflorescent 
crystals ; of a nauseous, metallic, styptic taste \ soluble in 
12 to 15 parts cold, and 2 or 3 parts boiling water, and in 
dilute Alcohol, but not in absolute Alcohol. The aqueous 
solution has an acid reaction, and decomposes by keeping. 
Is generally sufficiently pure when crystallized ; the 
crystals contain two (one ?) equiv. of water of crystalli- 
zation. 

Med. Effects. Nauseant, emetic, purgative, diaphoretic, 
diuretic, expectorant. 

Dose, as nauseant, &c, gr. ^ to J ; as emetic, gr. j to ij. 

Externally applied, produces pustulation. 

Incompat. Acids, Alkalies, and their Carbonates, 
some of the earths and metals, Chloride of Calcium, 



148 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Acetate and Subacetate of Lead, and Vegetable Astrin- 
gents. 

Toxicol. Effects. In large doses, excessive vomiting, 
purging, and other effects of irritant poisons. The 
least quantity required to produce death is not known ; 
recovery has taken place after swallowing two drachms. 
Post-mortem examination reveals gastritis and gastro- 
enteritis. 

Antidotes. Tannic Acid, in any form ; Green Tea. 

Tests. See Antimony. The preparations of Antimony 
are very apt to contain Arsenic. When the poison 
cannot be detected in the stomach, it should" be searched 
for in the urine or tissues. 

d. *Vinum Antimonii — Wine of Antimony — Anti- 
monial Wine. 

Prep. Is made by dissolving 9j Ant. et Potass. Tart, 
in f §x Vini (Sherry). 

Pern. It is apt to decompose; contains gr. ij to fgj. 

Dose, varies from gtt. x to §ss, according to the indi- 
cation. 

e. *Unguentum Antimonii — Ointment of Antimony. 
Prep. 1. Ant. et Potass. Tart. (Pulv. Subtil.) gij, 

2. Adipis gj, rub 1 with a little of 2, add the remainder 
and mix. 

Used externally to produce pustulation. 

Besides the above, the Terchloride (SbCl 3 ) is used as 
an escharotic (B 'utter of Antimony), the Pidvis Antimo- 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 149 

nialis or James 9 Powder, officinal in the Edin. and Dub. 
Ph's ; is made by heating together Sb0 3 and horn shav- 
ings. It contains Sb0 3 ; CaO,P0 5 ; Sb0 4 and CaO,Sb0 4 . 
It is irregular in composition and effect, and is not now 
much used. 



XXVIII. LEAD. Pb. 103-56. 

Nat. Sources. The native Sulphide, and Phosphate; 
prepared by roasting. 

Prop. Soft, very malleable, bluish metal; Sp. Gr. 
11*45; bright, when first cut, but soon tarnishes; melts 
at 600°, and may be volatilized. Easily oxidizes, at a 
high heat, into protoxide, PbO (Litharge). In moist air, 
becomes covered with a gray coating of suboxide, Pb 2 0. 

Cham. Eel. Forms with Suboxide, Pb 2 0(?); ^Prot- 
oxide, PbO (Litharge) ; Minium, or red lead, Pb 3 4 ; 
or 2PbO + Pb0 2 , made by oxidizing, PbO, by exposure 
to air, at a high heat ; Sesquioxide, Pb 2 3 (?), and Pb0 2 , 
Plumbic Acid (puce or brown oxide), obtained by digest- 
ing minium in dilute N0 5 . With N0 5 , soluble *Ni- 
trate, PbO,N0 5 ; with C0 2 insoluble ^Carbonate 
(White Lead); with S, Sulphide, PbS, Subsulphide, Pb 2 S; 
with S0 3 , insoluble sulphate; with CI, sparingly soluble 
Chloride; with I, insoluble *Iodide, and various other 
salts, which are generally colourless. 
13* 



150 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Tests. HS, gives a black ; KI, and K0,O0 3 , a yellow ; 
S0 3 , or a soluble sulphate, a white precipitate. 

Med. Effects. The salts of lead are sedative and as- 
tringent. 

Incompatible*. S, CI, I, SQ 3 , C0 2 , Cr0 3 , T, and their so- 
luble compounds — metallic zinc, vegetable astringents. 
The alkalies are incompatible with the salts of lead 
generally. 

Toxicol. Effects. In large doses, or small ones long 
continued, poisonous. In acute poisoning, the symptoms 
and post-mortem appearances are those due to irritant 
poisons. In chronic poisoning, as from the vapour of 
lead in type foundries, handling of types, working in 
white lead, &c, the symptoms are those of Colica Picto- 
num, or lead palsy ; which will be found treated of in 
works on the Practice of Medicine. Clean, new lead, is 
acted on by water containing C0 2 , or by pure water ; a 
very small quantity of earthy impurities prevents this ; 
5 ou °f sulphate of lime is sufficient. When lead pipe is 
used for conveying water, it may be protected by passing 
a soluble alkaline sulphate, or dilute, S0 3 , through it, 
before bringing it into use. 

a. Oxide. 

Off. Prep. a. *Plumbi Oxidum Semivitreum — 
Semivitrified Oxide of Lead, Litharge, PbO. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRT. 151 

Prep. Is made, on the large scale, by exposing melted 
lead to a current of air. 

Prop. Small, brilliant, red or yellow vitrified scales, 
fusing at red heat. Slightly soluble in water ; saponifies 
with oils. Absorbs, C0 2 , by exposure to the air. Is 
readily dissolved in dilute, N0 5 . Is largely employed in 
the arts, in painting, &c. Is not used as medicine, but 
enters into other officinal compounds, as (a) *Emp. 
Plumbi, lead plaster; which is made by boiling together 
Litharge (ifev), Olive Oil (Cong, j), and Water (Oij). 

b. Nitrate. 

b. *Plumbi Nitras — Nitrate of Lead. 

Prep. Is made by dissolving Litharge in dilute, N0 5 ; 
when crystallized, is in the form of white, nearly opaque 
crystals; soluble in water, and alcohol; and having a 
sweetish, astringent taste. 

Uses. Is never used internally ; rarely externally. It 
is employed as a disinfectant. Ledoyan's Disinfecting 
Solution, contains 3J to Sj water. It acts by absorbing 
HS, giving rise to PbS. 

c. Carbonate. 

c. *Plumbi Carbonas — Carbonate of Lead. White 
Lead, PbO,C0 2 or 2 (PbO,C0 2 ) -f PbO,HO. 

Prep. Is prepared, on the large scale, by exposing 
metallic lead to the action of vapour of vinegar. A 



152 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

subacetate is formed, which becomes carboDate by absorp- 
tion of C0 2 , from the atmosphere, liberating the acetic 
acid, which acts on a fresh portion of metallic lead. 

Prop. Fine, white, heavy, opaque, inodorous, nearly 
tasteless, insoluble powder. Dissolves freely in acids, 
with evolution of C0 2 . 

Med. Effects. The most poisonous of the lead salt. 
Cases of acute poisoning are rare. The alkaline sulphates, 
generally employed as antidotes, are of little use ; dilute, 
S0 3 , or Acid. Sulph. Arom., with emetics and purgatives, 
should be used. It is the salt which most commonly 
causes Colica Pictonum. It is used only externally, as a 
sedative and astringent. 

d. *Unguentum Plumbi Carbonatis — Ointment of 
the Carbonate of Lead. 

Prep. Is made by rubbing up (§ij) Plumb. Carb., 
and Ung. Simp. (Ibj) ; first softening the latter by heat. 

d. Iodide. 

e. *Plumbi Iodidtjm — Iodide of Lead. 

Prep. Is made by mixing solutions of Nitrate of Lead 
(§iv to Ojss Aq. destillJ), and Iodide of Potassium (giv 
to Oss Aq. Destill.); soluble Nitrate of Potassa, and 
Iodide of Lead, which precipitates, result. PbO, N0 5 , and 
KI = PbIandK0,N0 5 . 

Prop. Bright yellow, heavy, tasteless, inodorous pow- 
der; soluble in 1235 parts cold, and 194 boiling water. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 153 

The boiling solution is colourless, and deposits it, on cool- 
ing, in brilliant yellow scales. It melts, is volatilized, 
and finally decomposed by heat. 

Med. Effects. Used only externally, in ointment, as an 
alterative, sedative, and astringent. 

e. Acetates. 

/. *Plumbi Acetas — Acetate of Lead. Sugar of Lead. 

Prep. Is prepared, on the large scale, by the action of 
Acetic Acid on lead plates frequently exposed to the air, or 
by dissolving litharge in the acid. The formula of the 
crystallized salt, is PbO,xi, -+- 3HO. 

Prop. White, crystalline, solid; sweetish, astringent 
taste; slightly efflorescent. Soluble in 1} parts cold 
water ; the solution is turbid, on account of the formation 
of Carbonate, from the presence of Carbonic Acid in 
ordinary water. 

Med. Effects. Astringent, and sedative ; in large doses 
poisonous, but fatal results are very rare. Antidotes, al- 
kaline sulphates, or dilute S0 3 . Dose, gr. v to 3j. Long 
continued, it may produce chronic poisoning. 

Incompat. Acids, their carbonates, the soluble sul- 
phates, chlorides, tartrates, and iodides, the vegetable 
astringents. 

g. *Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis — Solution of the 
Subacetate of Lead. Goulard's Extract. 

Prep. Is made, by boiling together, Plumbi Acetat. 
(gxvj); Plumb. Oxid. Semivit., Pulv. Subtil, (gixss), 



154 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

and Aq. Destill. (Oiv), for half an hour ; adding water, to 
keep up the quantity, and filtering. The Sp. Gr. of the 
solution is 1*267. 

In this case, an additional quantity of PbO, is given to 
the acetate, forming 3PbO,A (trisacetate), or 2PbO,A 
(diacetate). The liquid has a sweetish, astringent taste, 
and absorbs, C0 2 , with great avidity, becoming turbid; 
hence should be kept in well-stopped bottles. 

Med. Effects. Only used externally ; is more poisonous 
than the acetate. Antidotes the same. 

h. *Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis Dilutus — Lead 
Water. 

Prep. Is made by diluting the last preparation, f 3ij 
to Oj. It is turbid, when first made; but if kept well- 
stopped, becomes clear, by the subsidence of the Carbonate. 

k. *Ceratum Plumbi Subacetatis — Cerate of the 
Subacetate of Lead — Goulard's Cerate. 

R. 1. Liq. Plumb. Subacetat. f giiss ; 2. Cerce Albas, 
giv; 3. Olei Olivi f^ix; 4. Camphorce 3ss ; mix 2, pre- 
viously melted, with f gviii 3, remove from the fire, and 
add 1, stirring constantly with a wooden spatula until 
cool, then add 4, dissolved in f gj 3, and mix. 

Rem. Soon becomes rancid. 

XXIX. COPPER. Cu. 31-66. 

Nat. Sources. Native, as Oxide, Sulphide, and Salt; 
is said to exist in the liver and blood. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 155 

Prop. Brilliant, sonorous, very malleable, and ductile 
metal, of a characteristic colour, slightly nauseous taste, 
and disagreeable odour when rubbed; Sp. Gr. 8-89; fuses 
at 1996°. 

Chem. Rel. Forms four oxides : Suboxide, Cu a O, Prot- 
oxide, CuO, Binoxide, Cu0 3 , and an undetermined higher 
oxide, which is acid ; the Protoxide forms an important 
series of salts ; the salts of Cu a O are colourless, those of 
CuO of a rich blue or green colour. 

Tests. Ammonia throws down a blue precipitate, solu- 
ble in excess, Ferrocyanide a brown, and Hydrosulphuric 
Acid a black precipitate. 

Officinal Preparations. 

A. Sulphate. 

a. *Cupri Sulphas — Sulphate of Copper — Blue Vi- 
triol. 

Prep. May be obtained by boiling Cu in HO,S0 3 : S0 2 
is given off; Cu and 2 S0 3 = CuO,S0 3 and S0 3 ; is ob- 
tained, on the large scale, by roasting the native sulphide. 

Prop. Rich, deep blue crystals; nauseous styptic taste ; 
soluble in 4 parts cold, and 2 boiling water ; heated, under- 
goes aqueous fusion, then dries, and becomes white; at 
a high temperature, is decomposed. 

Med. Effects. Small doses, tonic, antispasmodic, and 
astringent ; large doses, emetic ; externally, escharotic, and 
in solution, astringent. 



156 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Toxicol ogicol Effects. In large doses, 55s and more, an 

irritant poison, but not likely to be taken, on account of 
its taste. Antidotes : Magnesia. Albumen; the same may 
be said of all the Salts of Copper. The Arsenite, Scheele's 
Green, CuO,As0 3 , combines the effects of its constituents. 
When copper vessels are used in preparing food, or when 
workmen are exposed to it, slow poisoning may also take 
place, giving rise to cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea, and 
dysentery. 

Incompat. Those of S0 3 ; Metallic Iron and Zinc; 
Ammonia. 

b. Organic Compounds. 

b. Cupri Subacetatis — Sulacetate of Cupper — Ver- 
digris ; impure Subacetate of Copper. 

Prep. Is made by stratifying sheets of Copper and 
refuse of Grapes ; the Alcohol in the husks becomes Acetic 
Acid, and unites with Oxide of Copper formed upon the 
plate. Its composition is variable; contains 3CuO,2A + 
6 HO, and 3CuO,A + 3HO. 

Prop. Pale, green-coloured, or blue masses, composed 
of silky needles ; soluble in Ammonia, insoluble in Alco- 
hol, and decomposed by water into neutral Acetate and 
Trisacetate. 

Med. Effects. Used only externally as an escharotic and 
astringent ; internally, like the other salts of copper, 
poisonous. 

c. *Uxguextum Cupri Subacetatis — Ointment of 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 157 

Subacetate of Copper, is made by adding (Jj) Cup. Subacet. 
to (5*0 Cng- Simp., previously melted, and stirring until 
cold. 

d. *Cuprum AmmoniATUM — Ammoniated Copper. 

Prep. Is made by rubbing (§ss) Cupri Sulpli. with 
(ivi) Amnion. Carb., until effervescence ceases. 

Rem. The composition of this compound is not under- 
stood ; probably a Cupro- Sulphate of Ammonia, NH 4 0, 
S0 3 +NH 4 0,CuO + HO, in which the Oxide of Copper 
acts the part of an acid. 

Prop. Beautiful deep azure-blue salt, with a strong 
ammoniacal odour, and styptic, metallic taste; is freely so- 
luble in water ; rapidly decomposes on exposure to the air. 

Med. Effects. Tonic and antispasmodic. 

Incompat. All Acids ; the Alkalies and Earths gene- 
rally. 

XXX. ZIXC. Zn. 32-52. 

Obtained from native Sulphide (blende) and Carbonate 
(calamine), by roasting, and reduction with C. 

Prop. Bluish-white, soft, laminated metal; peculiar 
taste and odour when rubbed ; when pure, may be rolled 
into sheets cold; melts at 773°, at red heat boils and may 
be distilled ; takes fire in the air, with emission of white 
fumes of Oxide, ZnO; dissolves in most acids, with evolu- 
tion of H. 

14 



158 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Cliem. Eel. Forms, with 0, two oxides, Protoxide 
ZnO, and Peroxide ? The Protoxide gives a large number 
of salts, which are colourless ; the Oxide, Carbonate, Sul- 
phate, Chloride, and Acetate are officinal. 

Med. Effects. The Salts of Zinc are tonic, antispasmodic, 
and astringent ; they are poisonous, but not actively so ; 
workmen engaged about them are liable to a Zinc colic. 

a. Oxide. 

Officinal Preparations. 

a. *Zinci Oxidum — Oxide of Zinc. ZnO. 

Prep. Is made by strongly heating the *Carbonate. 

Prop. Inodorous, tasteless, white powder ; insoluble in 
Water and Alcohol, freely so in Acids ; becomes yellow 
when moderately heated, but white again on cooling ; at a 
low white heat, fuses, and at full white, sublimes. It is 
the Zinc wliite of commerce. 

Med. Effects. Tonic, antispasmodic. Dose, gr. ij to x. 
Externally as mild astringent. 

b. *Unguentum Zinci Oxidi — Ointment of Oxide of 
Zinc, is made by rubbing f gj ZnO with §vi Adipis. 

b. Carbonates. 

c. *Calamina — Calamine — impure native Carbonate of 
Zinc. ZnO,C0 2 . 

Is generally very impure, many specimens containing 
no Carbonate of Zinc. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 159 

d. *Calamina PRyEPARATA — Prepared Calamine (na- 
tive Carbonate of Zinc.) 

Prep. Is made by heating the Calamine to redness, 
and levigating and elutriating, as directed for ^Prepared 
Chalk. 

Prop. A pinkish or flesh-coloured powder, of an earthy 
appearance. 

Med. Effects. Used only externally ; a mild astringent . 

e. *Ckratum Calamine — Cerate of Calamine — Tur- 
ner's Cerate. 

Prep. Is made by melting together Cera Flav. (§iij) 
and Adeps (Ibj), and when, on cooling, they begin to 
thicken, stirring in Calamina Prep. (§iij). 

/. *Zinci Carbonas Pr^ecipitatus — Precipitated Car- 
bonate of Zinc. 

Prep. Is made by mixing boiling solutions of Sulphate 
of Zinc and Carbonate of Soda ; Sulphate of Soda remains 
in solution, and Carbonate of Zinc precipitates. It is a 
basic compound. Its formula is 8ZnO,3C0 2 + 6HO, 

Prop. A very soft white powder, resembling Magnesia 
Alba, freely soluble in HO,S0 3 , with effervescence. Is 
used as a substitute for Calamine, which is often too impure 
for use. 

g. *Ceratum Zixci Carbonatis — Cerate of the Carlo- 
nate of Zinc. 

Prep. Is made by rubbing up Jij of the Carbonate 
with Jx Ung. Simp. 



160 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

c. Sulphate. 

h. Zinci Sulphas — Sulphate of Zinc — White Vitriol. 

Prep, Is made by dissolving Zn in HO,S0 3 ; Zn and 
HO,S0 3 =ZnO,S0 3 andH. 

Prop. Colourless, transparent salt, much resembling 
Epsom Salt, containing, when crystallized, 7 eq. HO; 
soluble in 2} parts cold, and less than its weight of boiling 
water; taste styptic, astringent; heated, undergoes aqueous 
fusion, becomes anhydrous, and finally lose3 its acid. 

Med. Effects. Small doses, gr. j to ij, tonic, astringent, 
antispasmodic; large, 3j, emetic; overdose, an irritant 
poison, rarely fatal, from its producing vomiting ; its effects 
are combated by Mucilage and Albumen. Externally, as 
an astringent. 

Incompat. The Alkalies and Earths, their Carbonates; 
Lead Salts ; Vegetable Astringents. 

d. Chloride. 

i. *Zinci Chloridum — Chloride of Zinc — Butter of 
Zinc. 

Prep. Is made by dissolving Zinc (^ijss) in Acid. 
Muriatic, q. s., adding Acid. Nitric, (f 3j), evaporating to 
dryness, then dissolving the dry mass in water, and adding 
(3j) Greta prep., allowing the mixture to stand 24 hours, 
and again evaporating to dryness. The object of the addi- 
tion of the Nitric Acid is to sesquioxidize any iron which 
may exist, and which is left behind when the dry mass is 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 161 

redissolved. The addition of the chalk is for the same 
purpose. 

Prop. Grayish-white, waxy, translucent, deliquescent 
solid. 

Med. Effects. Used principally as an escharotic ; in large 
doses, a corrosive poison. Antidotes : the Alkaline Carbo- 
nates, Soap. 

The Liquor Zinci CMoridi of the Dublin Ph., contains 
175 grains to f ^j Aquce; Burnett's Disinfecting Fluid con- 
tains 200 gr. to fgj. Used diluted as an astringent and 
detergent wash. 

e. Acetates. 

h. *Zinci Acetas — Acetate of Zinc. 

Prep. Is made by agitating granulated Zinc (§ix) with 
a solution of Acetate of Lead (Ibj to Oiij) for 5 or 6 hours, 
until the solution gives no precipitate with KI \ the Zinc 
removes all the Acetic Acid from the Lead, and is dissolved ; 
the solution is filtered, acidulated with A, and crystallized. 

Prop. Colourless, efflorescent plates, containing 7 eq. 
water of crystallization ; freely soluble in water, less so in 
dilute Alcohol. 

Med. Effects. Used externally as an astringent. 

Incompat. Mineral Acids, Alkalies, Earths, the Car- 
bonates, the Vegetable Astringents. 
14* 



162 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 



NOBLE METALS. 



XXXI. *MEKCURY (HYDRARGYRUM). Hg = 200.* 

Nat. Sources. Is found native, and obtained from its 
Bisulphide (Cinnabar), by distillation with lime or iron. 

Prop. Pure Mercury is a brilliant, silvery liquid ; 
tasteless, inodorous; Sp. Gr. 13*5. Does not change, by 
exposure to the air, at common temperatures. Heated to 
near the boiling-point, absorbs oxygen, becoming bin- 
oxide (Hg0 2 ), which it yields at a higher heat, becoming 
again reduced. It boils at 662°, and maybe distilled; 
freezes at — 39° into a solid, resembling lead. Ordinarily 
it is contaminated with other metals (lead, bismuth, tin) ; 
these may be suspected by its tarnishing, and its globules 
having " tails." It may be purified by distillation, or by 
the action of dilute N0 5 , or Corrosive Sublimate. 

Chem. Rel. Forms two oxides, HgO, Protoxide (Grey, 
or Black Oxide), and Hg0 2 , Binoxide (Bed Oxide, Bed Pre- 
cipitate); two sulphides, HgS, Protosulphide (Black Sul- 
phide, jEthiops Mineral), HgS 2 , Bisulphide (Cinnabar) ; 
two chlorides, HgCl, Protochloride (Calomel), HgCl 2 , Bi- 
chloride (Corrosive Sublimate); two Iodides, Hgl, Prot- 

* The equivalent of Mercury, is latterly assumed to be 100. This will alter 
the nomenclature of its compounds; Protoxide, HgO, will become Suboxide, 
Hg 2 0, and so on. It has been deemed best to retain the former number in 
this connection. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 163 

iodide (Yellow Iodide), Hgl 2 , Biniodide (Red Iodide): With 
the acids, a series of salts are formed with the two oxides 
of mercury, of which those of the binoxide are the most 
stable. The Metal, its Oxides, Nitrate, Sulphides, Sub- 
sulphate, Chlorides, Iodides, and Bicyanide, and Ammo- 
niated Mercury, are officinal in various forms. 

Med. Effects. Vary exceedingly with the dose, prepa- 
ration, and mode of administration. See works on General 
Therapeutics. 

Tests. See Corrosive Sublimate. 

a. As Metal. 

Off. Prep. a. ^Hydrargyrum — Mercury. 

h. *PiLULi£ Hydrargyri — Pills of Mercury — Blue 
Pills. 

Prep. Are made by rubbing §j Eydrarg. with giss 
Confect. Bosce, until the globules disappear, then adding 
gss Pulv. Glycyrrhizce, and dividing the mass into 480 
(3 gr.) pills. It should contain 33J per cent, of mer- 
cury, or one gr. to each pill, but usually has less. It is 
generally made on the large scale. Dose, one to two pills. 

c. *Unguentum Hydrargyri — Mercurial Ointment. 
Blue Ointment. 

Prep. R. Hydrarg. Tbij, Adipis §xxiij, Scevi gj. 
Rub the Mercury with the Suet, and a portion of the Lard, 
until all the globules are extinguished ; then add the re- 
mainder of the Lard. This preparation is also made on 



164 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

the large scale. Various expedients have been proposed 
to facilitate the extinction of the metal, but they are not to 
be recommended. If long kept in jars, the metal settles, 
and the strength becomes unequal ; it should, therefore, 
be stirred from time to time. Used externally only. 

d. *Emplastrum HtdRAKGYBI — Mercurial Plaster. 
Prep. Is made by rubbing Eydrarg. (fvi) with equal 

parts (§ij) of 01. Olivoe, and Pe since, previously melted 
together and cooled, until the globules disappear, and 
adding these to (Ibj) Emp. Plumbi, previously melted, 
and mixing. Mercury is also employed in the *Emp!ast. 
A m m o n ' Hydra rgyro. 

e. ^Hydrargyrum cum Creta — Mercury with Chalk. 
Prep. Is made by rubbing (siij) Hydrarg. with (§v) 

Crete? Preparation until the globules disappear. It com- 
bines the antacid effects of the Chalk, with the alterative 
powers of the Mercury. There is too little chalk to be 
of much service ; more may be added at the time of pre- 
scribing. 

Dose, gr. v to gas. The Dublin Ph. has a correspond- 
ing preparation, made with Magnesia — Hydrargyrum cum 

:S\d. 

b. Oxide. 

/. *Hydrargyri Oxidum Nigrum — Black Oxide of 
Mercury (protoxide). HgO. 

Prep. Is made by adding Calomel (§iv) to a solution 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 165 

of Caustic Potassa (giv to Oj Aq.) ; HgCl, and KO = HgO, 
and KC1. The precipitate of HgO is washed, and dried 
at a gentle heat. 

Prop. A greenish-black powder, becoming olive after 
a time, inodorous, tasteless ; insoluble, except in acids. 
Decomposed by light, and low heat, into a mixture of 
Hg, and Hg0 2 ; by high heat, into Hg, and ) resembles 
Calomel in its action; dose, gr. £ to gr. iij. The Black 
Wash, made by adding 3J of Calomel to Oj Lime-water, 
contains this oxide. 

g. *Hydrargyri OxiDUM Rtjbrum — Red Oxide of 
Mercury, Binoxide, Red Precipitate. 

Prep. Is made by heating the Nitrate, which contains 
Hg0 2 ,2N0 5 , and HgO, N0 5 . The NO s is decomposed, N0 2 
is given off, and 20 go to oxidize the Protoxide to Binoxide, 
which remains. It may also be made by exposing the metal 
at, or near its boiling-point, to the air (Red Precipitate per 
se, Calcined Mercury). Also by adding a caustic alkali, to 
a solution of corrosive sublimate, a yellow precipitate falls 
(Yellow Wash) ; which is probably a hydrate, HgCl 2 , and 
KO, 3HO=Hg0 2 ,3HO, and KC1. The first is the 
officinal process. 

Prop. Bright, orange-red powder ; slightly soluble in 
water; decomposed by high heat into Hg, and 0. It 
is not used internally ; externally, is stimulant, and 
escharotic. 

h. *Unguentum Hydrargyri Oxidi Rubri — Oint- 



166 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

merit of the Red Oxide of Mercury. Red Precipitate Oint- 
ment. Is made by rubbing up 5J of Red Precipitate, in 
fine powder, with gj Simple Ointment. 

c. Nitrate. 

i. *Unguentum Hydrargyri Nitratis — Ointment 
of the Nitrate of Mercury. Citrine Ointment. 

Prep. Is prepared by adding Nitrate of Mercury to a 
mixture of fresh Neats-foot oil (fgix), and Lard (§iii). 
The nitrate is prepared by dissolving (gj) Hg, in (f giv) 
H0,N0 5 . The nitrate is reduced by the mixture, to sub- 
nitrate of the deutoxide ; and other changes, not well 
understood, take place. The ointment is a bright yellow 
colour, when first made; soon changes, becoming greenish, 
mottled, and more or less brittle. 

The Hydrargyri Pernitratis Liquor of the Dub. Ph., 
solution of the Acid Nitrate of Mercury, much used as a 
caustic, is made by dissolving §j ? avoirdupois, Hg, in 
f giss N0 5 , diluted with fgiss Aqucc. It is a solution 
of the Nitrate of the Deutoxide Hg0 2 ,2N0 5 , with an 
excess of acid. 

d. Sulphides. 

k. ^Hydrargyri Sulphuretum Nigrum — Black Sul- 
phuret (Sulphide) of Mercury. JEthiops Mineral. 

Prep. Is made by rubbing together equal parts of 
sulphur and mercury. Is uncertain in composition. HgS, 
or HgS 2 , and S. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 167 

Prop. Heavy, tasteless, insoluble, black powder; be- 
coming violet, and decomposed by heat. Is very little 
used. Dose, gr. v to gj. 

I. *HYDRARGYRI SuLPHURETUM EuBRUM — Red Sul- 
phur et (Sulphide) of Mercury. Cinnabar, Vermilion, 
Hg,S 2 . 

Prep. Is made by heating together (§xl) Mercury, 
and (gvii) Sulphur. Is made generally on the large 
scale. 

Prop. Heavy, brilliant red, crystalline masses ; in- 
odorous ; insoluble. Is volatilized and decomposed by 
heat. Is used only for fumigations. 

e. Sulphate. 

m. *Hydrargyri Sulphas Flavus — Yellow Sulphate 
of Mercury. Turpeth Mineral. 

Prep. Is made by throwing the Sulphate of the Deut- 
oxide (Hg0 2 ,2S0 3 ) (see Calomel, Corrosive Sublimate), 
into water. It is decomposed into Turpeth Mineral, 
3Hg0 2 ,2S0 3 , and Supersulphate of Mercury, Hg0 2 ,6S0 3 . 

Prop. A lemon-yellow powder, of an acrid taste. 
Dose, as alterative, gr. \ to J; emetic, gr. iij to v. 
Used also as an errhine. 

In overdose, an irritant poison. Antidote : Albumen ? 

f. Chlorides. 

n. *Hydrargyri Chloridum Mite — Mild Chloride 
of Mercury — Protochloride, Calomel. 



168 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

0. *Hydrargyri Chloridum Corrosivum — Corro- 
sive Chloride of Mercury — Bichloride, Corrosive Sub- 
limate. 

As the processes for preparing them are intimately con- 
nected, they will be described together. 

1. Corrosive Sublimate is made as follows: Sulphate 
of the Deutoxide of Mercury is made by boiling (Ibii) Hg 
in (Ibiii) Sulphuric Acid, Sulphurous Acid being liberated, 
Hg and 4S0 8 = Hg0 2 ,2SO B and 2S0 2 . 

This is rubbed, when cold, with (Ibiss) common Salt, 
and the mixture sublimed. The Corrosive Sublimate 
sublimes, and Sulphate of Soda remains. Hg0 2 ,2S0 3 and 
2NaCl = HgCl 3 and 2NaO,S0 3 . 

2. Calomel is made as follows : the Sulphate of the 
Deutoxide of Mercury is made as before ) this is rubbed 
with another equivalent of Mercury (flbij), and reduced to 
the Sulphate of the Protoxide, Hg0 2 ,2S0 3 +Hg = 2(HgO, 
S0 3 ) ) this is sublimed with the same quantity of Chloride 
of Sodium as the last (Ibiss), 2HgO,S0 3 and 2NaCl = 
2HgCl and 2(NaO,S0 3 ). The Calomel is washed, to free 
it from any Corrosive Sublimate, until the washings no 
longer give a precipitate with Ammonia. 

Calomel, in mass, is a white, fibrous, crystalline sub- 
stance, giving a yellow streak when scratched. Sp. Gr. 
7*2. Becomes yellow and blackish, on exposure to light. 
Is insoluble in Water, Alcohol, and iEther, but volatile ; 
should be entirely volatilized by heat. Its medicinal pro- 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 169 

perties are too various to be described here. Dose, gr. ^ 
to 3i; the o *Pilul^e Hydrargyri Chloridi Mite, 
Calomel Pills, contain 1 gr. each, mixed with Gum Arabic 
and Syrup. 

Incompatible^. The Alkalies, Alkaline Earths, their 
Carbonates, Soap, Sulphides, Hydrocyanic Acid, Com- 
mon Salt ? Iron ? Lead ? Copper ? 

p. Corrosive Sublimate. 

Prop. Colourless, transparent crystals, or white, semi- 
transparent, crystalline masses; Sp. Gr. 5*2; permanent 
in the air; inodorous, acrid, persistent, metallic taste; 
melts and volatilizes readily, with dense, acrid fumes ; so- 
luble in 20 parts cold, and 3 boiling water, in Alcohol, 
and JEtlier ; also, without change, in Sulphuric, Muriatic, 
and Nitric Acids ; Muriate of Ammonia, and common 
Salt, render it more soluble in water. It retards putre- 
faction, by coagulating albumen and fibrin. Should dis- 
solve wholly in iEther, and be wholly volatilized by heat. 
Dose, gr. -^ to T V 

Incompat. Alkalies, Alkaline Earths, their Carbonates, 
Soap, Iodides, Sulphides, Tartar Emetic, Nitrate of Silver, 
Acetates of Lead, and many Metals, Vegetable Astringents, 
Albumen, Fibrin, Gluten. 

Toxicological Effects. In overdose, gr. iii to v., a cor- 
rosive poison ; recovery has taken place, after an ounce had 
been swallowed. Antidotes: Albumen (white of egg, 

15 



170 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

blood), Fibrin, Gluten (flour), Milk, with free evacuation 
of the stomach. 

Tests. 1. Lime-water, yellow Hydrate of Deutoxide, 
Hg0 2 ,3HO. 

2. Carbonate of Potassa, brick red Carbonate of Mer- 
cury, HgO,C0 2 . 

3. Iodide of Potassium, scarlet Biniodide of Mercury, 

Hgl 2 . 

4. Ammonia, tchite Amide of Chloride of Mercury ? 
HgCl,NH a . 

5. Hydrosulphuric Acid, black Sulphide of Mercury, 
HgS. 

6. Protochloride of Tin, greyish-black Sulphide of Mer- 
cury, Hg. 

7. A bright plate of Copper, immersed in solution, 
reduces the metal. 

8. Gold, in a solution of mercury, touched with Iron or 
Zinc, causes reduction of the metal; the metal may be sub- 
limed from the precipitates by heat. The relative deli- 
cacy of these tests is thus given : Lime-water, 4; K0,C0 2 , 
7; KI, 8; NH 4 0, 36; HS, 60; SnCl, 80; the last two 
are still more delicate, and act in the presence of organic 
matter. 

g. Iodides. 

q. *Hydrargyri Iodidum — Iodide of Mercury — -Yel- 
low Iodide, Protiodide, Hgl. 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 171 

Prep. Is made by rubbing together, with the aid of a 
little Alcohol (^j), Hydrarg. and (Jv) Iodine. 

Prop. A yellowish-green powder, becoming darkened 
by exposure to light ; insoluble in Water and Alcohol, 
soluble in iEther; Sp. Gr. 7*75; volatilized by heat, con- 
densing in red crystals, which become yellow ; is mild in 
its alterative action. Dose, gr. i to iii. Iodide of Potas- 
sium converts it into Hgl 2 . 

r. *Hydrargyri Iodidum Eubrum — Red Iodide of 
Mercury, Biniodide, Hgl 2 . 

Prep. Is made by mixing solutions of Corrosive Sub- 
limate (gi to Oiss Aq.) and Iodide of Potassium (Jx to 
Oss) ; Biniodide of Mercury precipitates, and Chloride of 
Potassium remains in solution, HgCl 2 and 2KI = Hgl a 
and 2KC1. May also be made, by rubbing together one 
eq. Mercury with two eq. Iodine. 

Prop. Brilliant scarlet powder ) Sp. Gr. 6-3 ; insoluble 
in water, soluble in alcohol, in solutions of KI, and 
Nad; is dimorphous; heated, becomes yellow, and sub- 
limes in yellow crystals ; when yellow, becomes red again 
by pressure. Dose, gr. T *g. Resembles in its effects Cor- 
rosive Sublimate. In overdose, an irritant poison. Anti- 
dotes, as in Corrosive Sublimate. 

s. *Liqtjor Arsenici et Hydrargyri Iodidi — Solu- 
tion of the Iodides of Arsenic and Mercury — Donovan's 
Solution. 

Prep). Is made by rubbing equal parts, gr. xxv, of 



172 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

*Iodide of Arsenic, and red Iodide of Mercury together, 
with f gss of Water, adding f gviiss Water, heating to the 
boiling-point, and filtering. 

Prop. A pale yellow solution ; incompatible with Tr. 
Opii and Salts of Morphia. Dose gtt. v to xx. 

h. Cyanide. 

t. *Hydrargyri Cyanuretum — Cyanuret of Mercury 
— Bicyanide, HgCy a . 

Prep. Is made by boiling together Prussian Blue and 
red Oxide of Mercury, 2FeCy 6 and 9Hg0 2 = 9HgCy 2 and 
6FeO, and 4Fe 3 3 . 

Prop. Transparent, or opaque white crystals, of a 
disagreeable styptic taste; freely soluble in cold water; 
HC1 liberates Hydrocyanic Acid. In large doses, is a 
potent poison ; no direct antidote is known ; those for 
HgCl 2 may be used. Dose, gr. j 1 ^ to gr. |. 

u. ^Hydrargyrum Ammontatum — Ammoniated Mer- 
cury — White Precipitate. 

Prep. Is made by adding Ammonia to a solution of 
Corrosive Sublimate ; White Precipitate is thrown down, 
and Chloride of Ammonium remains. It is believed to be 
a compound of Amide (NH 2 ), with Chloride of Mercury, 
2NH 4 and HgCl 2 = NH 4 C1, and 2HO, and Hg,Cl,NH 2 . 

Prop. White powder, of an earthy, metallic taste ; in- 
soluble in alcohol and cold water ; decomposed by boiling 
water; exposed to strong heat, dissipates, being decom- 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 173 

posed into N, NH 4 0, and HgCl. It is only used exter- 
nally. 

v. *Unguentum Hydrargyri Ammoniati — Ointment 
of Ammoniated Mercury — White Precipitate Ointment. 

Prep. Is made by rubbing 3i of White Precipitate 
with giss Ting. Simp. 



XXXII. ^SILVER (ARGENTUM). Ag. 108. 

Nat. Sources. Found native, as Sulphide, Chloride 
(Horn Silver), and Bromide. 

Prop. Perfectly white, highly lustrous metal, very 
good conductor of heat and electricity; Sp. Gr. 10-5; 
tenacious, malleable, and ductile ; melts at a bright red 
heat; does not oxidize at any temperature, but becomes 
covered with a black tarnish of Sulphide, in presence of 
compounds of S. 

Chem. Eel. Forms with 0, Suboxide, Ag 2 ?, Prot- 
oxide, AgO, and Peroxide ? ; with S, Sulphide, AgS ; with 
CI insoluble, AgCl, white, blackening on exposure to the 
light. Its Iodides and Bromides also change thus, and are 
hence used in photography. It dissolves freely in cold 
N0 5 . Its Oxide, Nitrate, and Cyanide are officinal. 

Test. The soluble Chlorides give with the Salts of 
Silver a white, curdy precipitate (AgCl), blackening on 
exposure to the light, and insoluble in boiling Nitric Acid. 
16* 



174 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

The metal is reduced from its solution by Iron, Copper, 
Mercury, and other metals. 

Off. Forms, a. *Argentum — Silver. 

b. *Argenti Oxidum — Oxide of Silver. AgO. 
Prep. Is made by adding *Liquor Potass^e to a 

solution of Nitrate of Silver (f 31V to Oss Aq. Destill.) 
as long as a precipitate falls ; Nitrate of Potassa remains 
in solution, AgON0 5 and KO = AgO and KO,N0 5 . 

Prop. An olive-brown powder; should not effervesce 
with acids. 

Med. Effects. Its effects, internally, are similar to those 
of Nitrate of Silver, over which it is supposed to have the 
advantage of not discolouring the skin. 

c. *Argenti Nitras — Nitrate of Silver. AgO,N0 5 . 
Prep. Is made by dissolving Silver in Nitric Acid, 

3 Ag and 4N0 5 = 3(AgO,N0 5 ) and N0 2 . 

Prop. Colourless, transparent crystals of an intensely 
metallic and bitter taste ; blackens on contact of organic 
matter; soluble in its weight of cold water and 4 parts 
boiling Alcohol. 

Med. Effects. Various; internally tonic, antispasmodic; 
externally, sedative, escharotic, astringent; in overdose, a 
corrosive poison. Antidote, common Salt. 

Test. See Silver. 

Dose, gr. £, gradually increased. 

Incompatibles. Muriatic, Sulphuric, Acetic Acids, and 
their soluble salts. The soluble Iodides, and Sulphides, 



INORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 175 

the Alkalies, Alkaline Earths, their Carbonates, Tartar 
Emetic, Corrosive Sublimate, Iron, Lead, Copper, Mer- 
cury, Vegetable Astringents. 

d. *Argenti Nitras Fusus — Fused Nitrate of Silver 
— Lunar Caustic — Lapis Infernalis. 

Prep, Is made by melting the Nitrate and pouring it 
into moulds. 

Prop. Is in the form of small sticks, which gradually 
blacken on exposure to light, probably from the presence 
of organic matter. 

Med. Uses. Is intended solely for external use. 

e. *Argenti Cyanuretum — Cyanuret (Cyanide) of 
Silver. 

Prep. Is made by distilling Hydrocyanic Acid, from 
Ferrocyanide of Potassium and dilute S0 3 , into a solution 
of AgO,N0 5 . It may also be formed by adding Cyanide 
of Potassium, KCy, to a solution of AgON0 5 . 

Prop. It is a tasteless, white, insoluble powder; 
soluble in boiling N0 5 . 

Use. Is not used in medicine, but for the purpose 
of preparing ^Hydrocyanic Acid, extemporaneously by 
the addition of HC1. 



XXXIII. GOLD (AURUM). Au. 98-33. 

Nat. Sources. Occurs native. 

Prop. Is a soft, yellow metal, the most malleable of 
the metals; is very ductile; Sp. Gr. 19*5; melts at a 



176 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

bright red heat; is unaffected by ordinary oxidizing 
agents and the Acids ; is dissolved by Nitrorauriatic Acid. 

Chem. Rel. Forms with 0, Protoxide, AuO, Ter- 
oxide (Auric Acid) Au0 3? Perauric Acid, Au0 5 ? ; with S, 
by indirect combination, Protosulphide, AuS, and Tersul- 
phide, AuS 3 ; with CI, Protochloride AuCl, and Ter- 
chloride, AuCl 3 ; and similar compounds with I. 

Med. Uses. The preparations of Gold have been used 
in the treatment of syphilis. They are highly poisonous, 
and prone to decomposition. 



XXXIV. PLATINUM. Pt. 

Nat. Sources. Occurs native. 

Prop. Is a white metal, very malleable and ductile, 
harder than Gold, fused only by the highest artificial 
heat; Sp. Gr. 21-5; is not affected by air, moisture, or 
ordinary acids ; is soluble in Nitromuriatic Acid ; is, from 
its unalterable character, largely used in the arts. 

Chem. Rel. It forms two Oxides, PtO and Pt0 2 , two 
Chlorides PtCl and PtCl 2 , and compounds with Iodine, 
Bromine, Sulphur, and Phosphorus. The Bichloride, 
PtCl 2 , made by dissolving the metal in Nitromuriatic 
Acid, is used as a test for Potassa, with which it com- 
bines to form a double salt, Bichloride of Platinum and 
Chlorich of Potassium, PtCl a +KCl. Platinum sponge 
and black are the metal in a state of fine division. The 
Platinum compounds are not used in medicine. 



PART III. 

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 

Organic Chemistry investigates the compounds pro- 
duced under the influence of vitality, and those derivable 
from them by chemical means. 

These substances present us with certain peculiarities. 

1. The complex arrangement of the elements composing 
them. — Inorganic substances rarely contain over seven equi- 
valents of any element entering into their composition. 
Organic substances have generally a large number. In 
Inorganic Compounds; the elements are arranged in 
pairs, forming Binary, Ternary, Quaternary compounds 
(see page 17). In Organic substances, no such division 
can in most cases be made. Ex. : Sulphate of Potassa, 
KO,S0 3 , consists of two pairs of elements, Quinia, C 20 
H 12 N0 2 combines, and is separated from combination as 
a whole. 

2. Organic substances, although containing, in most 
cases, many equivalents of their constituents, are made 
up of few elements. A large proportion contain only 
Carbon and Hydrogen, or Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen, 



178 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

a smaller class Nitrogen; while a few contain Sulphur 
and Phosphorus, and compounds may be artificially pre- 
pared into which other elements enter. 

3. The elements entering into Organic Compounds 
are not arranged according to their strongest annuities. 
Hence, these compounds are readily decomposed, and the 
more so, as a general rule, in proportion to the number of 
their elements. When the decomposition is complete, 
Carbonic Acid from the union of the Carbon and Oxygen, 
Ammonia from that of the Nitrogen and Hydrogen, Water 
from that of the Hydrogen and Oxygen, and occasionally 
compounds of Sulphur and Phosphorus with Hydrogen 
result. 

By acting upon organic substances with chemical agents, 
they are broken up and rendered less complex. We can- 
not, as a general rule, increase the number of elements or 
of equivalents. The rare exceptions to this law (Ex. : 
urea), assimilate to inorganic compounds. 

4. There are cases in which a certain number of equi- 
valents of an element or compound may be substituted for 
those of another, without, in most instances, altering 
essentially its physical characters ; these are called substi- 
tution products, and afford an important exception to the 
rule last laid down. Thus, by acting upon cotton C 24 H 20 
O 20 , by strong Nitric Acid, Gun-cotton (Pyroxyline) is 
formed, in which five equivalents of Hydrogen are re- 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 179 

placed by five of Hypo-nitric Acid ; giving the formula, 

Ca4 l4N0 4 J ° 20 ' ° r C » H * N *°»°- 

Organic bodies will be considered under the following 
heads. 

1. Starch Group. Comprising bodies composed of 
Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen, which are neutral, or 
nearly so, and their derivatives. 

2. Quasi-Elementary Substances. Compounds which 
act the part of elements : 1. Those resembling, in their 
chemical relations, Hydrogen, and the Metals (salt basyles), 
as Ethyl, Methyl, Amyl, &c, which form compounds with 
Oxygen, &c, and their Oxides with the Acids,— -the 
Ethers; 2. Those which resemble, in their chemical rela- 
tions, Chlorine, Oxygen, &c. (salt radicals), as Cyanogen, 
which forms with Hydrogen, Hydrocyanic Acid, analogous 
to the Hydrochloric, and Cyanides, analogous to the Chlo- 
rides. 

3. Organic Acids, not Oxides of known radicals, and 
not otherwise classified, as the Tartaric, Citric, &c. 

4. Organic Bases, not Oxides of known radicals, and 
not otherwise classified. The Alkaloids, Quinia, Morphia, 
&c. They contain Nitrogen. 

5. Fats and Oils. 

6. Colouring Principles. 

7. The Albumen Group, comprising the chemistry of 
the animal fluids. 



180 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 



I. STARCH GROUP. 

The most important members of this group are, — 

1. *Starch, C^H^O^. 

2. Lignin, C 24 H 20 O 20 . 

3. *Gum Arabic, C 24 H 22 22 . 

4. *Gum Tragacanth, C^H^O^. 

5. *Cane Sugar, GJI 22 22 . 

6. Grape Sugar, C 24 H 28 28 . 

a. *Starch. 

Nat. Sources. Found abundantly in the vegetable 
kingdom, especially in the seeds and roots of plants. 

Prep. Is obtained generally by rasping or crushing 
the vegetable, and washing the mass upon a sieve ; the 
starch passes through, and settles at the bottom of the 
liquid. 

Prop. It is a white, shining powder, exhibiting, under 
the microscope, irregular grains, consisting of layers covered 
by an external membrane ; it is insoluble in cold water, 
but when boiled, the globules burst, and form a transpa- 
rent jelly, Amidin, which gives a characteristic blue colour 
with free Iodine. Starch is officinal, as, 

a. *Amylum, Wheat Starch, b. # Maranta, Arrow- 
Root, the fecula of the rhizoma of Maranta Arundinacea. 
c. *Sago, the prepared fecula of the pith of Sagus Rumphii. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 181 

d. *Tapioca, the fecula of the root of Jatropha Manihot. 
The starch of an imperfectly determined species of Canna, 
tons les mois, is officinal in the Ed. Ph., and Potato Starch 
is often used as a substitute for Arrow-Root. By long 
boiling with dilute acids, by roasting, or by the action 
of diastase — a peculiar principle found in germinating 
seeds and buds — Starch is converted into a substance much 
resembling Gum, known as Dextrine (British Gum). 
By continuing the process, Dextrine is converted into 
Grape Sugar. Nitric Acid converts Starch into Oxalic 
Acid. (See Sugar.) 

B. Lignin — Cellulose. 

Nat. Sources. The fundamental material of the struc- 
ture of plants; is identical in composition with Starch; 
has been found in certain diseased conditions of the human 
brain ; is seen nearly pure in fine linen or cotton. 

Prop. Is insoluble in ordinary menstrua, not nutritious, 
and is unaffected by dilute acids or alkalies ; strong Oil of 
Vitriol, in the cold, converts it into Dextrine, and finally 
into Grape Sugar ; it is not coloured by Iodine; by the 
action of strong Nitric Acid, it is converted into an ex- 
plosive substance, a. Pyroxyline, in which a portion of 
its Hydrogen is replaced by Hyponitric Acid. There 
appear to be two species, one of which is insoluble in 
iEther, and highly explosive, the other soluble, and less 
explosive ; the latter is said to be formed, when cotton is 
16 



182 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

acted on by a mixture of concentrated Nitric Acid and Oil 
of Vitriol, at the temperature of their mixture; the former 
when cold. The exact composition of these has not been 

determined; they have been given as C 2 A a ^ n \ 20 , or 
C^H^NgO^, for the soluble form, and the insoluble as 

f H l6 ) 

^ 24 i4Nf> f ^20 — C 24 H 16 N 4 36 . The sethereal solution of 

the soluble pyroxyline is officinal, as b. *Collodium; in 
the formula the cotton is steeped in a mixture of Nitre 
and Oil of Vitriol, by which Nitric Acid is generated. 

Similar explosive compounds are formed by the action 
of Nitric Acid on Starch (xyloidine), Paper, Glucose, Man- 
nite, Gum, and Dextrine. 

Wood exposed to the air, undergoes slow decay, erema- 
causisj due to the absorption of Oxygen : Carbonic Acid 
and Water are produced. Vegetable mould contains cer- 
tain principles, which have been described as humus, geine, 
ulmin, Jiumic and ulmic acids : they usually contain 
Ammonia, the Nitrogen of which is supposed to be obtained 
from the atmosphere. 

When vegetable fibre undergoes decomposition, excluded 
from the air, either under water or ground, it is converted 
into peat; and gradually into lignite, and coal. 

By destructive distillation, a very large number of pro- 
ducts, principally hydro-carbons, are obtained from wood 
and coal. Among the products of this distillation may be 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 183 

mentioned, Pyroligneoas Acid, which will be referred 
to under Acetic Acid, also, 

c. *Pix Liquida. Tar, which yields, on distillation, 
a number of volatile principles, and leaves a hard residue, 
Pitch. 

d. Kreasote, C 28 ,H l6 ,0 4 — *Creasottjm. Obtained 
from Wood-tar, or crude Pyroligneous Acid. 

Prop. It is, when pure, a colourless, oleaginous liquid ; 
of a caustic, astringent taste ; peculiar odour ; is inflam- 
mable; boils at 397°. It is powerfully antiseptic; coagu- 
lates albumen. It is used externally as a styptic, stimu- 
lant, and antiseptic ; internally, as an antiseptic, astrin- 
gent, and to relieve nausea and vomiting. Is soluble in 
80, or y^th, parts of water only ; but may be rendered so- 
luble in any proportion, by the addition of a few drops of 
acetic acid. 

Dose, gtt. ss to j ; in overdose, an irritant poison. 
Treatment, that for Corrosive Sublimate. Used externally 
in ointment. 

e. *Unguenttjm Creasoti. Containing f Jss to gj of 
lard. 

The other products of the destructive distillation of 
wood, or coal, are highly interesting, but their full discus- 
sion would be out of place in the present work. Some of 
them will be considered under other heads. 



184 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

c. Gum, C 20 H 23 O 22 , 

a. Gum Arabic — *Acacia. Is the type of this class. 
The mucilages are identical in composition with it. 

Prep. Gum is soluble in water ; boiled with dilute 
Sulphuric Acid, is converted into Grape Sugar. Nitric 
Acid, produces Mucic Acid, C^H^O^. 

b. Gum Tragacanth, C 24 H 20 O 20 — *Tragacantha. 
Is distinguished from ordinary gum, by refusing to dis- 
solve in water ; it merely swells up, forming a thick, 
viscous paste. It is composed chiefly of a peculiar muci- 
lage, Bassorin. 

d. Sugar. 

Several species of Sugar are distinguished. 

a. Cane-Sugar, C^H^O^ — *Saccharum. 

Prep. Obtained principally from the juice of the Sac- 
charum officinarum, or Sugar Cane ; obtained also from 
the Sap of the Maple, the root of the Beet, &c. 

Prop. It is in crystals, which, when pure (Rock 
Candy), are freely soluble in water, forming Sj/rup. At 
a moderate heat, it melts, forming on cooling, a transpa- 
rent, amorphous mass (Barley Sugar). At a higher heat, 
it loses two equivalents of water, and becomes blackened 
(Caramel). By the action of Nitric Acid, it is converted 
into Oxalic Acid. This is due to the replacement of the 
whole of the hydrogen of the' sugar, and an increase of 
its oxygen, by oxygen derived from the decomposition 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 185 

of the Nitric Acid; Binoxide of Nitrogen being given 
off. 12N0 5 , and C 24 H 22 22 = 22HO and 12N0 2 and 0*0*. 
0.033=12(0,03). 

b. Grape Sugar — Glucose, C^H^O^. Exists in ripe 
fruits ; previous to ripening, they contain starch. 

Prep. It may also be formed by the action of Sul- 
phuric Acid on sugar, starch, lignin, &c. Exists in the 
urine in diabetes. 

Prop. Is less sweet than Cane Sugar, and less soluble, 
requiring one and a half parts of cold water for solution. 
It is somewhat soluble in Alcohol, hardly affected by the 
Mineral Acids, which destroy cane-sugar ; but is de- 
stroyed by alkalies, with which cane sugar forms definite 
compounds. 

Tests. 1. Trommer's. Add to the suspected solution 
(Diabetic Urine for instance), a few drops of solution of 
Sulphate of Copper, add an excess of Caustic Potassa ; if 
Sugar be present, a deep-blue liquid results, which depo- 
sits on boiling, Red Suboxide of Copper. Long boiling 
must be avoided, as other organic substances then give 
the reaction. 2. Fermentation. A little Yeast will cause 
fermentation in Diabetic Urine ; it often takes place spon- 
taneously. 3. Horsley recommends the use of an alkaline 
solution of Bichromate of Potassa, mixed with the sus- 
pected solution. A deep, sap-green colour results, from 
the production of Sesquioxide of Chromium. 
16* 



186 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Other organic matters reduce Chromic Acid ; this test 
must, therefore, be cautiously employed. 

Honey — *Mel. Is a mixture of crystallizable Grape 
Sugar, with an uncrystallizable compound having the same 
composition. Sugar of Milk — Lactin, C^H^O^, is ob- 
tained from the Whey of Milk. Mannite, C 12 H 14 12 , found 
in abundance in * Manna. Glycyrrhizin, found in * Glycyr- 
rhiza ; and Sugar from *Ergot, C 24 H 26 26 , are all va- 
rieties of Sugar, differing more or less from cane and 
grape sugar. Glycocoll, Sugar of Gelatin, and Inosite, 
from flesh, are described in Group VII. A saccharine 
matter, resembling Glucose, is found in the liver. 

Fermentation. 

1. Vinous. When the juice of grapes, or other fruits 
containing Grape Sugar, is exposed to the air, a peculiar 
decomposition ensues ; the sugar being converted into 
Carbonic Acid Gas, which is given off, and * Alcohol, 
which remains. Although air is necessary for the com- 
mencement of the process, it will go on without it when 
once begun. A solution of pure sugar is not changed by 
exposure to the air ; but if we add a little Yeast (Dia- 
stase), Blood, Albumen, Flour-paste (Gluten), or other 
nitrogenized substance, capable of undergoing putrefac- 
tion, this change is effected. This action is called Fer- 
mentation. Its exact nature is not understood; but is 
supposed to be by the molecular change taking place in the 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 187 

ferments, inducing a similar one in the particles of the 
solution with which they are in contact, — decomposition 
by example. Grape Sugar is the only variety capable of 
vinous fermentation ; the other sugars being first converted 
into it before undergoing this process. The conversion of 
Grape Sugar into Alcohol and Carbonic Acid, is simple ; 
one eq. of grape sugar, C 24 H 28 2S , becoming 4 eq. Alcohol, 
8 of C0 9 , and 4 of water. 



4 eq. Alcohol, (C 4 H 6 2 ), = . 


• Cie^A, 


8eq. C0 2 ,= . . . 


• c 8 16 


4 eq. Water, . 


• H,0 4 



By long exposure to the air, the Alcohol becomes 
oxidized into * Acetic Acid. See Ethyl. 

2. Lactic. By the action of casein (a nitrogenized prin- 
ciple, existing in Milk and Cheese) upon Sugar, Lactic 
Acid, C 12 H 12 12 , is produced. It combines with bases to 
form Salts, of which the Lactate of the Protoxide of Iron 
and the Lactate of Quinia have been used as tonics. 

^. Butyric. By a continuation of the above process 
Lactic Acid disappears, and Butyric Acid, C 8 H 8 4 , is pro- 
duced. This Acid is also found in rancid Butter, and 
sometimes in animal fluids. 

4. Viscous. The Sugar of Beets or Carrots, exposed 
to a high temperature, undergoes a peculiar fermentation, 
— the viscous. Carbonic Acid and Hydrogen are given 
off, and traces of Alcohol, with Lactic Acid, Mannite, and 



188 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

a gum, are left. This fermentation may be produced in 
ordinary Sugar by the admixture of Gluten and Yeast. 

II. QUASI-ELEMENTARY BODIES. 

These, although Compound, act the part chemically of 
Elementary substances. 

1. Those which resemble Hydrogen and the Metals, 
combining with Oxygen, Chlorine, &c, and their Oxides, 
with Acids — Organic Salt Basyls. One of these, Ammo- 
nium, has been already considered, p. 99. Many of 
them are hypothetical, and of those which have been 
isolated, but one (Kakodyl) combines directly with the other 
elements to form its compounds. It must, therefore, be re- 
membered that the compounds of these quasi-elements 
differ essentially from the Salts, which have been already 
considered. 

2. Those which chemically resemble oxygen, sulphur, 
and the halogens; Organic Salt Radicals, Ex. : Cyanogen, 
p. 50. 

Of the Organic Salt Basyls the following are among 
the most important : — 

1. Ethyl, C 4 H 5 , Ae. 

2. Methyl, C 2 H 3 , Me. 

3. Amyl, C 10 H 11? Ayl. 

4. Kakodijl, C 4 H 6 AS, Kd. 

5. Benzyl, C 14 H 5 2 , Bz. 

6. Salicyl, C 14 H 5 4 , SI. 

7. Cinnamyly C^HyO^ Ci. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 189 

Of these, the first three present strong analogies in 
their chemical relations. 

Ethyl, C 4 H 5 , or Ae, is the radical of jEther (C 4 H 5 ) O, 
or AeO, which is obtained from Alcohol, the latter being 
a Hydrate of iEther, or a Hydrated Oxide of Ethyl (C 4 
H 5 )0,HO or AeO,HO. It has been isolated, and its 
compounds are termed Others. 

Methyl, C 2 H 3 , or Me, is in like manner the radical of 
the Wood JEther, obtained from Wood Spirit, a product 
of the destructive distillation of Wood, and which is a 
Hydrated Oxide of Methyl (C 2 H 3 )0,HO. 

Amyl, C 10 H lt , is the radical of Amyl- Ether (C^H^O, 
obtained from Fusel Oil or Potato Oil (C^H^O^HO, 
which may be called the Alcohol of Amyl. 

Alcohol, when oxidized, gives Acetic Acid (Vinegar), 
C 4 H 3 3 HO; Wood Spirit gives Formic Acid, C 2 H0 3 , 
and Fusel Oil gives Valerianic Acid, C 10 H g O 3 ,HO. 

We see then, that iEther (Sulphuric iEther) is the 
Oxide of Ethyl; Alcohol, the Hydrate of iEther; and 
Acetic Acid, Oxidized Alcohol. Wood iEther is the Oxide 
of Methyl; Wood Spirit, the Hydrate of Wood iEther ; 
and Formic Acid, Oxidized Wood Spirit. Amyl Ether is 
the Oxide of Amyl; Fusel Oil, the Hydrate of Amyl 
iE.ther ; and Valerianic Acid, Oxidized Fusel Oil. 

A. Ethyl, C 4 H 5 . 

a. Ethyl, C 4 H 5 , or Ae. 



190 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

I. *^Ether, C 4 H,,0, AeO. 

c. Nitrous ^Ether, C 4 H 5 0,N0 3 , AeO,N0 3 . 

d. * Alcohol, C 4 H 5 ,0,HO, Ae,0,HO. 

e. Aldehyde, C 4 H 3 0,HO. 

/ *Acetic Acid, C 4 H 3 3 ,HO. 

Beside these there are many others not used in medi- 
cine, as Hydrochloric iEther, AeCl; Nitric JEther, 
(proper), AeO,N0 5 ; Sulphuric iEther (proper), AeO, 
S0 3 ; Carbonic iEther, AeO,C0 2 , &c, &c, which serve 
to illustrate the series. 

a. Ethyl has been isolated as a colourless gas, con- 
densing at — 9°. As yet none of the series have been 
formed directly from it. 

b. Oxide or Ethyl — *^Ether, AeO. 

Prep. Is formed by the action of Sulphuric Acid 
upon Alcohol, aided by heat; is often, but erroneously 
called Sulphuric JEther. Equal weights are introduced 
into a retort, connected with a good condensing apparatus, 
and the distillation carried on, until the materials in the 
retort begin to froth and blacken, owing to the charring 
and destruction of the Alcohol. The iEther is purified 
by agitation with a solution of Potassa and redistillation 
at a gentle heat. 

Prop. Pure iEther is a colourless, very volatile, 
limpid liquid, of an agreeable smell, and pungent taste. 
The officinal Sp. Gr. is 0*750; when perfectly pure is 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 191 

0-713 : the latter boils at 95°; Sp. Gr. of vapour, 2*586. 
JEther has never been frozen. It burns readily, pro- 
ducing Carbonic Acid and Water; mixed with Air or 
Oxygen, it explodes violently ; it is soluble in 10 or ^ 
parts water. It dissolves most of the Fats and Oils, also 
Iodine, Bromine, Phosphorus, Corrosive Sublimate. 
iEther contains Alcohol, from which it is freed by agita- 
tion with Water, which with the Alcohol subsides; the 
JEther is then decanted, and freed from the small quantity 
of water dissolved by redistilling with Lime. When 
kept in a loosely-stopped bottle, it rapidly evaporates; 
that which remains may become acid from the absorption 
of Oxygen, and consequent formation of Acetic Acid. 

Rem. In the formation of iEther, the Sulphuric Acid 
evidently acts by separating the Water and Ether, which 
combined form the Alcohol. It does not, however, com- 
bine with the Water, as by the continuous process for the 
manufacture of iEther, in which a stream of Alcohol is 
made to flow through the Acid, kept at a certain tempe- 
rature, the same quantity of Acid may be made to con- 
vert an indefinite quantity of Alcohol into iEther, the 
separated Water being distilled over with the iEther. 
Other substances, as Caustic Potassa, having a strong 
aflinity for Water, do not convert Alcohol into iEther. 
Alcohol may be made by the direct combination of iEther 
and Water. 

Med. Effects. Anaesthetic, diffusible stimulant, anti- 



192 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

spasmodic ; externally as a refrigerant, the cold produced 
by its rapid evaporation being considerable. 

1. *Spiritus ^Etheris Compositus — Compound Spirit 
of JEilier — Hoffman's Anodyne. 

Prep. Is made by mixing JEiheris Oss, Alcohol. Oj, 
01. jEtherei f3iij. The *Oleum iETHEREUM, Ethereal 
Oil, heavy Oil of Wine, which is characteristic of this pre- 
paration, is made by distilling Alcohol with an excess of 
Sulphuric Acid. It is a yellowish liquid, of an oleaginous 
consistency, penetrating, aromatic odour, and rather sharp 
and bitter taste. It consists essentially of a double Sul- 
phate of iEtherand iEtherine, an hypothetic radical, C 4 H 4 . 
(C 4 H 5 0),S0 3 +(C 4 H 4 )S0 3 . Very little true Oil of Wine 
is to be found in the shops. 

Prop. Hoffman's Anodyne is a liquid, possessing most 
of the properties of iEther, and an odour of ^Ethereal Oil ; 
it frequently does not contain the latter. It should become 
milky on the addition of water, owing to the precipitation 
of the oil ; this oil, when collected on bibulous paper, 
should completely volatilize by heat ; any fixed oil is an 
adulteration. It is employed as an anodyne, and antispas- 
modic. Dose, f 3J to f§ss. 

c. Nitrate of Oxide of Ethyl — Nitrous JSther, 
C 4 H 5 0,N0 3 or AeO,N0 3 . 

Prep. By the direct action of Nitrous Acid on Alcohol. 

Prop. A pale, yellow, very volatile liquid, of an agree- 
able smell; boils at 62°; Sp. Gr. 0-947. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 193 

1. *Spiritus iETHERis Nitrici — Spirit of Nitric (Ni- 
trous) ^Ether — Sweet Spirits of Nitre. 

Prep. Is made by the action of Nitric Acid, — evolved 
by the action of Sulphuric Acid on Nitrate of Potassa — on 
Alcohol, and redistilling from Carbonate of Potassa. It 
consists of Nitrous iEther, AeO,N0 3 , dissolved in Alcohol. 

Prop. A colourless volatile liquid, of a fragrant, ethe- 
real odour; boils at 160°; Sp. Gr. 0*834. Becomes acid 
when kept in badly-stoppered bottles, Acetic Acid being 
formed. It may also contain Aldehyde; this gives a brown 
colour, when mixed with solution of Potassa. The pre- 
sence of any acid in excess is shown by its action on litmus, 
and by the usual tests. It is often adulterated by mere 
dilution with alcohol and water. 

Med. Effects. Diuretic, diaphoretic, antispasmodic. 
Dose, gtt. xxx to f Jij. 

d. Hydrated Oxide of Ethyl — * Alcohol, C 4 H 5 0, 
HO or AeO,HO. 

Prep. May be formed by the direct combination of 
iEther and Water ; is obtained by the vinous fermentation. 
As generally prepared by distillation, it contains a notable 
proportion of water, from which it may be freed by redis- 
tilling with Chloride of Calcium, giving Absolute Alcohol ; 
this has a Sp. Gr. of 0*7938 ; the officinal Alcohol has 
a Sp. Gr. of 0-835; Proof Spirit, 0-920. 

Prop. A colourless, transparent, volatile, inflammable 
liquid, of a penetrating, agreeable odour, and burning 

17 



194 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

taste ; boils at about 176° 5 dissolves Sulphur and Phos- 
phorus in small quantity, Iodine and Ammonia freely, 
Caustic Potassa, Soda, and Lithia; the Organic Alkalies, 
Tannic Acid, Grape Sugar, Camphor, Resins, Balsams, 
Volatile Oils, Soap, the Fixed Oils sparingly, except Cas- 
tor Oil, which is abundantly soluble ; most Acids and their 
Salts give with it, on distillation, their characteristic 
iEthers; all deliquescent Salts, except Carbonate of Po- 
tassa, most of the soluble Chlorides, and some Nitrates are 
soluble in alcohol ; all efflorescent Salts, those insoluble, or 
sparingly soluble in water, and the Metallic Sulphates, are 
insoluble. Solutions in Alcohol are called Tinctures, or 
Spirits. 

Med. Effects. In overdose, narcotic poison ; in mode- 
rate quantities, stimulant; seldom used alone externally. 
Besides the Tinctures, Liniments, &c, into which it enters, 
Wine and Brandy are officinal, as *Vinum Album, Sherry 
Wine; this is the Wine used in making the Medicated 
Wines, Vina Medicata ; *VlNUM Rubrum, Port Wine, and 
*Spiritus Vini G-allici, Brandy. 

e. Aldehyde, C 4 H 3 0,HO. 

Prep. Produced by the oxidation of Alcohol ; is inter- 
mediate between it and Acetic Acid. 

Prop. Is a limpid liquid, of a characteristic sethereal 
odour, which, when strong, is suffocating. Sp. Gr. 0*790. 
On exposure to air, speedily oxidized to Acetic Acid. May 
be considered as the Hydrated Oxide, or Alcohol of a radi- 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 195 

cal Acetyl (C 4 H 3 ), of which Acetic Acid is the highest 
acid. 

/. Acetic Acid — Vinegar, C 4 H 3 3 ,HO. 

Prep. Is formed by the complete oxidation of Alcohol. 
Alcohol does not oxidize spontaneously, when exposed to 
the air, but will do so, when a ferment is present, or when 
passed through the pores of Platinum Black, Beech Shav- 
ings, &c. Acetic Acid is also obtained by the destructive 
distillation of wood. This Acid, which has a peculiar 
smoky odour when crude, is known as Pyroligneous Acid. 

Acetic Acid is officinal : 1. As *Acetum, Vinegar, 
" impure dilute Acetic Acid, prepared by fermentation," 
and 2. *Acidum Aceticum, Acetic Acid, " Acetic Acid, 
of the Sp. Gr. 1-041," purified Pyroligneous Acid. 

1. *Acetum — Vinegar. 

Prep. Is prepared in various modes, from Wine, Cider, 
Beer, &c. ; the principle being the same in each, the oxida- 
tion of the alcohol in the liquor. 

Prop. Vary with the variety; has generally an agree- 
able smell ; pleasant, acid taste ; its colour varies from 
pale yellow to deep red. It contains, besides Acetic Acid 
and water, Gum, Sugar, Gluten, some Sulphates, and 
often, Tartaric and Malic Acids. The most common 
impurities are Sulphuric Acid, detected by boiling with 
Chloride of Calcium (Barium being inadmissible), Muriatic 
Acid, Copper, and Lead, which may be detected by the 
usual tests. 



196 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Uses. It is used as a refrigerant, and for its agreeable 
odour. 

2. *Acidum Aceticum — Acetic Acid. Sp. Gr. 1-041. 

Prep. Is obtained from the Pyroligneous Acid, a pro- 
duct of the destructive distillation of Wood. The crude 
Acid contains Tar, Wood, Alcohol, and Empyreumatic 
Oils. It is purified by combination with Lime, after- 
wards with Soda, and the decomposition of the latter by 
Sulphuric Acid. When Acetate of Lead is dried and 
decomposed by Sulphuric Acid, an Acetic Acid is ob- 
tained, containing but one eq. of water (Glacial Acetic 
Acid). This is a clear, corrosive, volatile, inflammable 
liquid, which blisters the skin. At 40° it becomes a 
crystalline solid. The anhydrous acid has been isolated. 

Prop. Officinal Acetic Acid is a colourless, volatile liquid, 
uniting in all proportions with Alcohol and Water. It may 
contain Mineral Acids, or Copper, or Lead as impurities. 

Med. Uses. It forms with bases the Acetates, most 
of which have been already considered. It is used also 
in preparing the officinal Vinegars : Aceta Medicata. 

b. Methyl, C 2 H 3 . 

a. Methyl, Me, C 3 H 3 . 

b. Oxide of Methyl, MeO, C 2 H 3 ,0, Methyl JEther. 

c. Hydrated Oxide of Methyl, MeO,HO, C 2 H 3 0,HO, 
Wood Spirit. 

d. Formic Acid, C 3 H,0 3 ,HO. 

e. ^Chloroform, C a HCL. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 197 

a. Methyl has not been satisfactorily isolated. 

b. Oxide of Methyl, C 2 H 3 ,0 or MeO— Methyl iEther. 
Prep, Produced by the action of Sulphuric Acid 

upon Wood Spirit, in a manner analogous to that for 
forming iEfcher. A large number of Methyl compounds 
corresponding to the Ethyl series, may be formed by the 
action of Acids, Salts, &c, upon Wood Spirit. 

c. Eydrated Oxide of Methyl, C 2 H 3 0,HO, or MeO, 
HO — Wood Spirit — Pyroxilic Spirit — Wood Naphtha, is 
the Alcohol of the Methyl series. 

Prep. Obtained during the destructive distillation of 
Wood. Is officinal in the Dub. Ph. as Spiritus Pyroxi- 
licus. 

Prop. A colourless, thin, mobile, inflammable liquid, 
with a peculiar smell, and burning taste ; boils at 152° ; 
Sp. Gt. 0*798 ; mixes in all proportions in the water; its 
solvent powers resemble those of Alcohol. 

Med. Effects. It has been much used under the name 
of Acetone or Wood Naphtha, in phthisis. Also used as 
a sedative, and to check obstinate vomiting. 

Dose, gtt. x to xl. 

d. Formic Acid, C 2 H0 3 ,HO or Me0 3 HO. 

Prep. By the oxidation of Wood Spirit ; exists abun- 
dantly in the bodies of Ants, whence its name. Is a 
frequent result of the oxidation of organic bodies. 

Prop. Hydrate of Formic Acid, resembles Glacial 
Acetic Acid, and is obtained, by an analogous process, 
17* 



198 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

from the Formate of Lead. It is very corrosive. None 
of its salts are used in medicine. 

e. Chloroform, C 2 HC1 3 . 

Prep. By the substitution of Chlorine, Iodine, or 
Bromine, for the Oxygen of dry Formic Acid, Chloro- 
form, Iodoform, C 2 HI 3 , and Bromoform, C 2 HBr 3 , are 
obtained. The first of these is officinal as 

*Chloroformum — Chloroform. 

Prep. By distilling Alcohol with Chlorinated Lime. 

Prop. A thin, colourless, volatile liquid, of an agree- 
able, aethereal smell, and sweetish, burning taste ; Sp. Gr. 
1-49; boils at 142° ; does not burn; insoluble in water; 
soluble in Alcohol and JEther. Dissolves the Volatile 
Oils, Resins, Camphor, &c. Should be neutral to Test 
Paper, and not bleach it; should sink in a mixture of 
equal weights of Oil of Vitriol and Water, which has a 
Sp. Gr. of 1*38; should not be coloured by pure and 
strong Oil of Vitriol. Chloric JEther, so-called, is a 
solution of Chloroform in Alcohol. 

lied. Effects. 1. Anaesthetic; 2. Sedative narcotic. 
Externally rubefacient and locally anaesthetic. 

Dose, gtt. v to xl. 

c. Amyl, C 10 H ir 

a. Amyl, C^H^, Ayl. 

b. Oxide of Amyl— Amyl JEther, C^H^O. 

c. Hydrated Oxide of Amyl (Fusel Oil), 0^11^0,110. 

d. Valerianic Acid, C 10 H g 3 ,HO. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 199 

The compounds of Arnyl, forming a series analogous to 
the Ethyl and Methyl, may be made by acting on Fusel 
Oil, a substance obtained from Potato or Corn Spirit. 

c. Hydrated Oxide of Amyl — Fusel Oil. 

Prop. When pure, a thin fluid oil, of a powerful, 
suffocating, and burning taste; boils about 268°; Sp. Gr. 
0*818; inflames with difficulty, burning with a pure blue 
flame. It is officinal in the Dub. Ph. as Alcohol Amy- 
licum — Amylic Alcohol, and is used as a source of Vale- 
rianic Acid. 

d. Valerianic Acid — Valeric Acid. Bears the same 
relation to Amyl, as Acetic Acid does to Ethyl, and 
Formic Acid to Methyl. 

Prep. By the oxidation of Fusel Oil; conveniently 
by the use of Bichromate of Potassa, which is the officinal 
process of the Dub. Ph. It exists naturally in the Vale- 
rian root. 

Prop. The Hydrated Acid is a thin, fluid, colourless 
oil, having in a remarkable degree the smell of the Vale- 
rian root. Taste, sharp and acid; reddens litmus; 
bleaches the tongue; is inflammable; boils at 370° ; Sp. 
Gr. 0-937. The Valerianate of Zinc is officinal in the 
Dub. Ph., and is made by double decomposition of Vale- 
rianate of Soda and Sulphate of Zinc. The Valerianate 
of Quinia is also officinal in the Dub. Ph., and is formed 
by double decomposition of Muriate of Quinia and Vale- 



200 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

rianate of Soda. The Valerianates have the antispasmodic 
effects of the Valerian. 

d. Kakodyl, Kd,C 4 H 6 As. 

Forms a large series of compounds, mostly of a highly 
offensive and poisonous character. The radical itself has 
been isolated as a thin, colourless liquid, and from it all 
the compounds may be directly formed, giving us the most 
perfect example of a quasi metal known. 

Oxide of Kakodyl, C 4 5 6 As,0, or KdO, Alkarsin, Fuming 
Liquor of Cadet. 

Prep. By distilling equal weights of Acetate of Po- 
tassa and Arsenious Acid. May be formed by the direct 
union of Kakodyl with Oxygen. 

Prop. A colourless, ethereal liquid, of a highly offen- 
sive smell, irritating the nose and eyes, and very poisonous. 
Boils about 302°; Sp. Gr. 1-462. Takes fire sponta- 
neously in the air, burning with a pale flame, producing 
Carbonic Acid, Water, and Arsenious Acid. 

From the Oxide, the other members of the series may 
be formed. The Chloride and Cyanide are especially 
poisonous, the latter perhaps the most active poison known. 
Kakodylic Acid, Kd0 3 , formed by the oxidation of Kd, 
or KdO, is a solid, which is not very poisonous. 

E. Benzyl. 

Benzyl, Bz, C 14 H 5 2 . 

Hydride of Bz, C 14 H 5 2 H ; *Bitter Almond Oil. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 201 

Hydrated Oxide of Bz, C 14 H 5 2 0,HO, ^Benzoic 
Acid. 

Benzyl has been isolated ; it is a crystalline substance, 
having the smell of the geranium. 

a. ^Hydride of Benzyl, BzH, Bitter Almond Oil. 
Officinal as *Oleum Amygdala Amarje, " the oil ob- 
tained by distilling the kernels of the fruit of Amygdalus 
Communis. " The oil does not pre-exist in the kernels, 
but is the result of the decomposition of a peculiar prin- 
ciple, Amygdalin, C 40 H 27 NO 22 , aided by a pulpy, albu- 
minous substance, Synaptase. The crude oil (which is 
the officinal), contains a large proportion of Hydrocyanic 
Acid, formed during the reaction, and is used in medicine 
for obtaining the effects of that acid. When freed from 
Hydrocyanic Acid, it is used as a flavouring material, and 
in perfumery. Bitter Almond Oil is also formed during 
the decomposition of nitrogenized substances. By acting 
upon Benzole, a liquid obtained by the distillation of Ben- 
zoic Acid with Caustic Lime, and also of Coal Tar, with 
fuming Nitric Acid, a substance, Nitro-Benzole, is obtained, 
and by the distillation of Hippuric Acid, Nitro-Benzyl ; 
both of these substances have the odour of the Bitter Al- 
mond Oil in a remarkable degree, and are substituted for 
it in perfumery. 

Prop. The officinal (crude) oil has a yellowish colour, 
bitter, acrid, burning taste, and a characteristic smell ; 
Sp. Gr. 1-052 to 1-082. The pure oil is colourless; Sp. 



202 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Gr. 1-043 ; boils at 356° ; soluble in 30 parts water, and 
in all proportions in Alcohol and iEther. The pure oil is 
not poisonous. The officinal oil is sometimes used as a 
substitute for the officinal Hydrocyanic Acid, but being 
variable in strength, should not be employed. 

b. Hydrated Oxide of Benzyl, BzO,HO, ^Benzoic 
Acid, *Acidum Benzoicum. 

Prep. Officinally, by subliming *Benzoin. Also, by 
boiling the gum with Lime, and precipitating the Benzoic 
Acid, by adding HC1, and in large quantity from the 
putrid urine of , herbivorous animals, being formed by the 
decomposition of Hippuric Acid. 

Prop. Light, feathery, colourless crystals, having a 
faint smell when rubbed, or warmed ; melts a little below 
212° ; soluble in 200 parts cold, 25 boiling water ; soluble 
in solutions of Borax, or Phosphate of Soda. Forms 
Benzoates, all of which are soluble; none are used in 
medicine. 

Med. Effects. Mildly astringent to the urinary organs, 
resembling, in its effects, Buchu or Uva Ursi. Dr. Wm. 
M. Uhler has proposed and used it as a remedy in diabetes. 
Given in eneuresis. Dose, gr. x to xxx. Taken inter- 
nally, it passes off in the urine as Hippuric Acid. (See 
Urine.) 

The other members of the Benzyl series are not used in 
medicine. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 203 

F. Cinnainyl, C 18 H 7 2 ,Ci. 

Is the radical of a series, of which the Hydride, C 18 H 7 
2 ,CiH, *Oil or Cinnamon, *Oleum Cinnamomi, is the 
only member employed in medicine. It is used as a sti- 
mulant. Oil of Cinnamon may be artificially prepared by 
the oxidation of Styrone, which is obtained by the distil- 
lation of *Storax with Caustic Potassa. 

G. Salicyl, C 14 H 5 4 . 

Is the radical of a series, of which the Hydride is iden- 
tical with the Oil of Spircea ulmaria, or Meadow-sweet. 
It is obtained from Salicin (C^H^O^), a crystalline, 
bitter principle, derived from the bark of the willow, 
poplar, &c. Salicin may be artificially made by the action 
of Caustic Potassa upon the Oil of Gaultheria procumbent 
*Oleum GtAULTHERI^e. Salicin is employed as a substi- 
tute for Quinia. Pliloridzin, C 43 H 24 O 20 +4HO, is an ana- 
logous substance, found in the bark of the root of the 
cherry, apple, &c. 

2. Organic Salt Radicals. 

H. Cyanogen, NC 2 or Cy. 

Resembles the Halogens; has been considered page 50. 

a. Ferrocyanogen, N 3 C 6 Fe, or FCy. Exists only in 
combination. 

Prep. May be prepared in combination with Potas- 
sium, by digesting Cyanide of Potassium with Iron 



204 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Filings; Oxygen is absorbed. 3 K(NC 2 ) + Fe + = 
KO + K 2 N 3 ,C 6 ,Fe, or KFCy. See *Potassii Ferro- 
cyanuretum, p. 89 ; and *Ferri Ferrocyanuretum, 
p. 133. 

b. Ferricyanogen, C 12 N 6 Fe 2 , or FdOy. Has not been 
isolated. 

Prep. Its compound with Potassium is formed when 
Chlorine is passed into a solution of Ferrocyanide of Pot- 
assium. The Chlorine abstracts an eq. of Potassium 
from two of KFCy, giving K 3 FdCy. 

Prop. Ruby red, transparent crystals; permanent in 
the air ; soluble in 4 parts cold water. Sometimes called 
Red Prussiate of Potash. Gives a blue precipitate with 
Salts of the Protoxide of Iron — Turnbull's Blue, Fe 3 
FdCy. 

Sulpliocyanogen, C 2 NS 2 or CSy. Is obtained in combina- 
tion with Potassium in anhydrous, colourless, deliquescent 
plates ; soluble in water and alcohol. A soluble Sulpho- 
cyanide strikes a blood-red colour, with Salts of Sesqui- 
oxide of Iron, but gives no precipitate. It is on this 
fact that Liebig's test for Hydrocyanic Acid is formed. 
Exists in combination in the saliva of man. 



III. ORGANIC ACIDS. 

Organic Acids not Oxides of known radicals, or not 
otherwise classified. The most important are : — 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 205 

Tartaric Acid, C 3 Hp i0 ,2HO. 



*ClTRIC 


(( 


C 12 H 5 li; 3HO. 


Malic 


(C 


C 8 H 4 8 ,2H0. 


^Tannic 


a 


ffl H i O 9 ,3HO (?) C„H 18 M + 8HO. 

(Strecker.) 


^Gallic 


(C 


C 7 H 3 ,2HO. 



a. ^Tartaric Acid — *Acidum Tartaricum. 

The acid of grapes, tamarinds, &c, is obtained from the 
deposit in wine casks (Argol, Crude Tartar), which is im- 
pure Acid Tartrate (Bitartrate) of Potassa. 

Prep. By decomposing the Acid Tartrate of Potassa, 
by Carbonate of Lime ; and the resulting Tartrate of 
Lime, by Sulphuric Acid. 

Prop. White, crystalline, solid. The crystals contain 
two eq. of basic water, which can only be replaced by a 
base; hence the acid is bibasic. It is soluble in its 
weight of cold, and one-half of boiling water. Forms 
Tartrates ; of which those of Potassa, and the double salts 
of Potassa and Soda, of Iron and Potassa, and of Anti- 
mony and Potassa, are officinal. 

Tests. Gives white precipitate with Lime, Baryta 
Water, and Acetate of Lead ; soluble in excess. With 
Potassa, when the acid is in excess, a sparingly soluble 
white Acid Tartrate (Bitartrate). 

Med. Effects. Refrigerant ; in over dose, irritant poigon. 
Used in preparing effervescing mixtures ; as the Soda 

18 



X 



206 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Powders, and Seidlitz Powders. The former consisting of 
Tartaric Acid and Bicarbonate of Soda; the latter of 
Tartaric Acid and Bicarbonate of Soda, with Tartrate of 
Potassa and Soda (Rochelle Salt). 

b. *Citric Acid — *Acidum Citricum. 

The acid of lemons, limes, &c. 

Prep. By saturating lemon juice with Chalk, and de- 
composing the Citrate of Lime thus formed by Sulphuric 
Acid. 

Prop. Transparent crystals; permanent in the air; 
soluble in J its weights of cold, and $ of boiling water. 
The crystals contain four eq. water; three of which are 
basic. It is, therefore, Tribasic. It forms Citrates; of 
which those of Potassa, Magnesia, and Iron, are officinal. 
It should give no precipitate with a Potassa salt. 

Tests. The Citrates of Lime, Baryta, Strontia, Lead, 
and Silver, are insoluble, and white. 

Med. Effects. Used in making acidulous drinks, and 
effervescing draughts. 

C. Malic Acid. 

The acids of apples, pears, &c. 

Prop. It is Bibasic, and forms Malates. Is not used 
in medicine. 



organic chemistry. 207 

d. *Tannic Acid — *Acidum Tannicum. 

e. *Gallic Acid — *Acidum Gallicum. 

These acids constitute the astringent principle of vege- 
tables. Their acid character is not very marked. 

Prep. Tannic Acid is prepared by pouring ordinary 
iEther upon powdered Galls, in a displacement appa- 
ratus. The water of the iEther dissolves the Tannic 
Acid, while the iEfcher retains the Gallic Acid and impu- 
rities. The two separate into layers ; they are separated, 
and the Tannic Acid obtained by careful evaporation. 

Prop. Tannic Acid is a slightly yellowish, friable, 
porous mass, without the slightest tendency to crystalli- 
zation. It has a pure, astringent taste ) is freely soluble 
in water ; reddens litmus ; precipitates Albumen, Gelatin, 
Starch, Gluten ; the salts of Lead, Copper, Silver, Mer- 
cury, Teroxide of Antimony, Protoxide of Tin, Sesqui- 
oxide of Iron ; Sulphuric, Nitric, Hydrochloric, Phos- 
phoric, and Arsenic Acids insoluble in excess of acid ; 
the Alkaloids, the precipitate being soluble in the Vege- 
table Acids, — hence it is not to be relied on as an 
antidote. 

Gallic Acid. Prep. May be formed by exposing 
Tannic Acid for a long time to the air ; a fermentation 
takes place, Oxygen is absorbed, and an equal volume of 
Carbonic Acid given out. Strecker views Tannic Acid as 
a combination of Gallic Acid and Grape Sugar; which 



208 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

latter is destroyed by fermentation, 2 (C 40 H ls O 26 ) + 8HO 
= 8 (C 7 H 3 ,2HO), Gallic Acid, and C 24 H 2S 28 , Glucose. 

Prop. White, silky, feathery crystals ; soluble in 100 
parts cold, and 3 boiling water; solution has an acid, 
astringent taste, reddens litmus, and spontaneously decom- 
poses. Does not precipitate Gelatin ) produces a deep, 
bluish-black colour with Salts of the Sesquioxide of 
Iron, which disappears when the solution is heated. By 
heat, new acids are produced, the Pyrogallic and Meta- 
gallic. 

Med. Effects. Tannic and Gallic Acids possess the 
properties of the vegetable astringents. The latter is 
seldom used. 



IV. ORGANIC BASES. 

Organic bases, not Oxides of known radicals, and not 
otherwise classified. The most important are 
♦Morphia, C 3 ,H 25 N 6 +2HO. 
Narcotina, C^H^N O u . 
Quinia, C 20 H 12 N 2 . 
Quinidia, C^H^N 0. 
Cinchonia, C 20 H 12 N 0. 
♦Strychnia, C 43 H 22 N 2 4 . 
Brucia, C 46 H 26 N 2 8 . 
*Veratria, C 3 ,H 22 N 6 . 
Aconitina, C^H^N 14 . 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 209 

Conia, C 16 H 15 N. 

Nicotina, C 10 H 7 N. 

Atropia, C 34 H 23 N 6 . 

Hyoscyarnine, C 3i H 23 N 6 . 

Emetia, C 35 H 21 N O g ? 

Caffein, C 16 H 10 N 2 O,. 

Piperine, C 3 ,H 19 N0 6 . 

These are known as the Alkaloids. They contain 
Nitrogen ; they form, with acids, salts, some of which are 
well-characterized ; they are generally insoluble in Water ; 
soluble in Alcohol ; their salts are generally soluble in 
Water ; they all possess the medical properties of the sub- 
stances from which they are extracted; are as a class 
highly poisonous. Tannic Acid precipitates them, but as 
the compound is soluble in the gastric juice, is hardly to 
be relied on as an antidote. Animal Charcoal removes 
them from solution, and when in sufficient quantity (§j 
of purified Animal Charcoal to gr. j of the Alkaloid) 
with, or immediately after them, prevents their action. 
The tests which have been proposed for them cannot be 
considered as sufficiently characteristic to be depended 
upon, particularly when they are mixed with organic 
matters. 

As the Alkaloids are always prepared by the manufac- 
turing chemist, and as the processes for their extraction 
and separation are intricate, they will not be here detailed. 
18* 



210 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Alkaloids of *Opium. 

The following have been isolated : they exist combined 
with a peculiar acid, the Meconic, C 14 H ljL ,3HO + 6HO, 
and with Sulphuric Acid; *Morphia, Narcotina, Codeia, 
Paramorphia, Narcein, Meconin, Porphyroxin, Pseudo- 
morphia, Papaverina, and Opiania. Of these, the only- 
one officinal is 

A. *Morphia. 

Prop. Is in small, very brilliant, transparent, colour- 
less crystals, soluble in 1000 parts cold, 30. of boiling 
Water, and freely in dilute Acids, forming its salts : also 
in excess of Caustic Potassa or Soda, but hardly in Am- 
monia. When in powder, it gives a blood-red tinge, 
changing to yellow with Nitric Acid; a deep bluish 
colour, with Sesquioxide of Iron; decomposes Iodic Acid, 
with liberation of Iodine. 

1. *Morpkle Sulphas — Sulphate of Morphia. 
Prep. Is made by dissolving Morphia in dilute Sul- 
phuric Acid, and evaporating to dryness. 

Prop. Is in minute, dry, feathery crystals, of a bitter 
taste ; freely soluble in water. 
Dose, gr. } to i. 

2. The *Liquor Morphije Sulphatis — Solution of 
Sulphate of Morphia, contains gr. j to f gj Aq. 

Dose, f 3j to f 3ij. 

3. *Morphi;e Murias — Muriate of Morphia. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 211 

Prep. Is made by dissolving Morphia in dilute Mu- 
riatic Acid. 

Prop. Resembles the Sulphate in general properties 
and dose. 

4. *MoRPHiiE Acetas — Acetate of Morphia. 

Prep. Is made by dissolving Morphia in Acetic Acid. 
Crystallizes in fine needles, united in fasciculi, soluble in 
Water; sometimes contains a little uncombined Morphia, 
which may be dissolved by the addition of a few drops of 
Acetic Acid. 

Prop. Properties and dose, those of the Sulphate. 

None of the other Alkaloids of Opium are employed 
in medicine. 

Alkaloids of *Cinchona. 

Are associated in the bark with Sulphuric and Kinic 
Acids. They are Quinia, Cinchonia, and Quinidia. 
The Yellow Bark (Calisaya Bark) contains a large quan- 
tity of Quinia with little Cinchonia; the Pale Bark (Loxa 
Bark) contains much Cinchonia with little Quinia; and 
the Red Bark contains both Alkaloids. 

b. Quinia. 

Prop. May be obtained in silky crystals, soluble in 
400 parts cold and 250 boiling Water; soluble in Alcohol, 
iEther, and the Fixed and Volatile Oils. It is not oflici- 
nal, but its Sulphate is. 



212 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Tests. Its salts give an emerald-green colour, when 
treated with Chlorine Water and afterwards with Am- 
monia; this changes to a white or violet upon the addi- 
tion of a dilute Acid. 

1. *Quini.e Sulphas — Sulphate of Quinia. 

Prop. It is in fine silky, slightly flexible, needle- 
shaped crystals, of an intensely bitter taste ; soluble with 
difficulty in cold water, but rendered readily so by the 
addition of a small portion of Sulphuric or Tartaric Acid. 

Tests. It should be entirely volatilized by heat, give 
no odour of Ammonia upon the addition . of Caustic 
Alkali; its solution with cold, concentrated Sulphuric 
Acid be colourless ; it should be entirely soluble in 
Alcohol and iEther ; its solution in water should be 
devoid of sweet taste. These tests prove the absence of 
the ordinary substances used in adulterating it. Salicin 
may be detected by the red colour it gives with strong 
Sulphuric Acid. Cinchonia, by treating the suspected 
solution with Chlorinated Lime, Lime Water, or Am- 
monia ; the precipitate which falls, if Quinia, is soluble in 
excess, but insoluble, if Cinchonia. A solution of Chlo- 
ride of Calcium yields a precipitate with Sulphate of 
Cinchonia, and none with that of Quinia. The 2. *Pi- 
lul^b Quinia Sulphatis contain one grain each. The 
Muriate and Valerianate of Quinia are officinal in the 
Dub. Ph. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 213 

C. Cinchonia. 

Prop. May be obtained in white crystals, insoluble 
in cold Water, soluble in 2500 parts boiling Water, 
and in boiling Alcohol; very slightly soluble in iEther 
and the Volatile Oils. Its solutions are very bitter. 
The Sulphate has been employed as a substitute for 
Sulphate of Quinia; it possesses the same properties, but 
is less active. 

D. Quinidia has been recently used with success as a 
substitute for Quinia (Cullen, Pepper). 

d. ^Strychnia. 

Nat. Sources. Exists in* the *Nux Vomica (Strychnos 
Nux Vomica), Bean of St. Ignatius (Strychnos Ignatia), 
and from the false Augustura Bark (Slrychnos Nux 
Vomica), together with Brucia. 

Prop. Is a grayish-white powder ; may be obtained in 
crystals j is soluble in 6667 parts cold and 2000 boiling 
water ) soluble in boiling Alcohol, but very sparingly in 
cold or absolute Alcohol, or iEther. Its Solutions and 
Soluble Salts are intensely bitter. 

Tests. Dissolved by Sulphuric Acid with T ^o tn °f 
Nitric and a minute quantity of Peroxide of Lead added, 
a blue colour is produced, rapidly passing into violet, red, 
and yellow. A crystal of Bichromate of Potassa added 
to its solution in Concentrated Sulphuric Acid, produces 
a violet colour. The Muriate is officinal in the Dub. Ph. 



214 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Strychnia possesses the effects of Nux Vomica in a high 
degree. 

Antidote, Camphor ? 

Dose, gr. y 1 ^ to ^ gradually increased. 

E. Brucia. 

Prop. Much resembles Strychnia, but is distinguished 
by its ready solubility in Alcohol. It gives a bright red 
tinge with Nitric Acid, changed to yellow by Protochlo- 
ride of Tin. 

F. * Yer atria. 

Found in various species of Yeratrum, *Veratrum 
Album, *Veratrum Yiride, and *V. Sabadilla. 

Prop. White, pulverulent, inodorous; insoluble in 
water, soluble in hot Alcohol and iEther ; has an acrid 
taste, and the properties of the plants whence extracted, 
in an eminent degree. Gives an orange-red tinge with 
Nitric Acid, changed to yellow by Protochloride of Tin. 
Dose, gr. y 1 ^ to y 1 ^. Used externally in Neuralgia, in 
ointment, or dissolved in Alcohol, gr. ij to iv to 3j. 

*Aconitina, from the *Aconitum Napellus ; Conia, 
from the *Conium Maculatum; Nicotina, from the *Ni- 
cotia Tabacum; Atropia, from the *Atropa Bella- 
donna; Eyoscyamine, from *Hyosciamus Niger; Erne- 
tia, from *Cephaelis Ipecacuanha, are all alkaloids, 
resembling those described, and possessing, like them, the 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 215 

poisonous properties of the plants in which they naturally 
exist. But one, the *Aconitina, is officinal. 

Caffein, or Tlieine, is found in tea, coffee, and the Ilex 
Paraguensis. Piperine is found in * Piper Nigrum. 

V. FATS AND OILS. 

These may be divided into 1. Fixed, 2. Volatile. 

1. Fixed Oils. 

General Prop. They communicate a greasy stain to 
paper, not removed by heat ; cannot be distilled without 
decomposition ; they all absorb Oxygen from the air, and 
either dry up (drying oils), or thicken, and become rancid; 
they have generally little smell and taste ; all are insoluble 
in Water ; but slightly so in Alcohol, except Castor Oil, 
which dissolves freely ; iEther, and the Volatile Oils, dis- 
solve them freely ; their consistence varies from that of 
tallow to the fluid condition ; they are generally liquid at 
ordinary temperatures ; mixed with bases, they combine 
and form soaps. The soap formed with Potassa, is soft ; 
with Soda, hard ; and with Lime, the Earths, and Metals, 
insoluble. Chemically, they consist of various volatile, 
organic acids (fat acids), united with a base, *Glycerin, 
which is set free, when the acids unite with a stronger 
base, in the formation of soaps. 

A. ^Glycerin, *Glycerina, C 6 H 8 6 . 

Prep. By mixing *Lead Plaster with boiling water, 



216 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

decanting, and passing a current of Hydrosulphuric Acid 
through the solution, to precipitate any dissolved Lead. 
On the large scale, is obtained from soap-makers' waste, or 
by decomposiDg a Lime Soap.* 

Prop. A colourless, inodorous liquid, of a sweet taste; 
soluble in all proportions in water and alcohol ; insoluble 
in JEther. Its solvent powers for salts, are between those 
of water and alcohol. Does not ferment, or become rancid ; 
does not dry. Is valuable as an emollient. 

The solid portions of fats consist of Stearin, a compound 
of Stearic Acid with Glycerin, and JIargarin. a compound 
of Margaric Acid with Glycerin; the fluid portions, of 
Oiettij Oleate of Glycerin. 

Stearic and Margaric Acids much resemble each 
other. 

B. Stearic Acid is obtained in crystalline, white, inodor- 
ous, tasteless needles ; melts at about 130°; insoluble in 
"Water, and nearly so in cold Alcohol and -.Ether. 

c. Margaric Acid appears, from recent researches, not 
to be a distinct acid, but a mixture of Stearic Acid, and 
of Palmitic Acid v C 3: H,_(X.HO /, obtained from Palm 
Oil (Heintz>. 

* Mr. Tilghman has re: lied a process for the decomposition of 

1 oils, a::d pre -. by the use of water under high 

pre-ssure and temperature. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 217 

d. Oleic Acid, C 36 H 32 3 HO, is a colourless liquid, of 
a distinct acid reaction, and sharp taste. Among the other 
fat acids, which are combined with Glycerin in various 
oils, may be named : Ricinioleic, from *Castor Oil ) 
Butyric, Capric, Caprylic, and Caproic, from Butter. A 
Butyrate of Glycerin has been formed by direct combina- 
tion, being the first instance of the union by a fat acid 
with its base artificially. E. *Wax contains Cerotic Acid 
and Myricin, which is a compound iEther. F. *Sperma- 
ceti contains Cetylic Alcohol, a solid substance, resembling 
Spermaceti itself, and Cetylic Acid, the product of the 
oxidation of this alcohol.* 

2. Volatile Oils. 

a. Containing Carbon and Hydrogen. 

*Oil of Turpentine, C 20 H 16 . Obtained by distilling 
crude Turpentine. Its properties are well known. By 
the action of Hydrochloric Acid Gas, is converted into 
artificial Camphor, C 20 H 16 ,HC1. The following Oils are 
isomeric with Oil of Turpentine : the cause of the difference 
of odour has not been determined : *Lemon, Orange Peel, 

* According to Heintz, Spermaceti consists only of Stearic, Palmitic, My- 
ristic (C28H28O4, from Oil of Nutmeg), and Lauro-Stearic (C24H24O4, from Oil 
of Laurel Berries), Acids, with Cetyl. He states that there can be no true 
fat acid, whose composition does not correspond to the formula, CnHnO^, in 
which n is a number divisible by 4, without a remainder. Certain mixtures 
of fat acids have a lower fusing-point than their constituents, resembling 
fusible alloys. 

19 



218 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Black Pepper, *Cubebs, * Juniper, *Savin, *Copaiva, 
*Bergamot, Cedar, Pine. 

B. Containing Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen. These 
form the great bulk of the Volatile Oils. Among them, 
the following are officinal : Oil of Roses, Spearmint, Pep- 
permint, Horsemint, Anise, Fennel, Caraway, Lavander, 
Pennyroyal, Rosemary, Marjoram, Sassafras, Cinnamon, 
Cloves, Camphor, Cajeput, Valerian, Gaultheria. 

c. Containing Sulphur. 

*Oil or Mustard, C 8 H 5 N 2 S, is colourless: Sp. Gr 
1-015; of a pungent smell, and vesicates rapidly. The 
Oil of *Horse-radish is identical. Oil of Garlic, C 6 H 5 S, 
Oil of Assafcetida, C^H^S^ and the Oil of Onions, belong 
to the same class. 

D. Resins. Are generally vegetable products, and 
seem to have been formed by the oxidation of Volatile 
Oils. Pure Resins are entirely soluble in Alcohol, iEther, 
and the Oils. Gum Resins partially dissolve in Alcohol ; 
the Gum not being affected; with water they form a milky 
emulsion, the Gum dissolving, and suspending the Resin. 

VI. COLOURING MATTERS. 

A. Indigo— C 16 H 5 N0 2 . 

Nat. Sources. Obtained from several species of Indi- 
gofera. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 219 

Prop. Is in compact blue masses, having a coppery 
tinge when viewed obliquely. Cautiously heated, may be 
volatilized, giving a blue vapour, which condenses in de- 
licate blue crystals. Is insoluble in water; soluble in 
strong Sulphuric Acid, forming Sulphoindigotic, and Sul- 
phopurpuric Acids. By deoxidizing agents, is rendered 
colourless, but becomes blue again by exposure to the air. 
By the action of Nitric Acid, Carbazotic Acid is obtained \ 
this forms a yellow, very slightly soluble salt with Po- 
tassa, for which it is used as a test. 

Med. Effects. Antispasmodic, but little used. Carba- 
zotic Acid has been successfully used as a substitute for 
Quinia (Bell). It may be made by acting upon Carbolic 
Acid (Coal Tar, Creasote), by Nitric Acid. 

b. Litmus. 

Obtained from Bocella Tinctoria, a lichen. Is used 
as a test for acids and alkalies. The former redden the 
blue infusion ) the latter restore its colour when red- 
dened. It is officinal in the Ed. Ph., as Lacmus. 

c. *Madder — Rubia. 

The Boot of Bubia Tinctorum. Largely used as a red 
dye ) with Alum, forms Lake. Used in medicine as an 
emmenagogue. 

d. ^Logwood — H^ematoxylon. 

The wood of Haematoxylon Campechianum. Also used 



220 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

as a red purple dye. Used in medicine, as a mild astrin- 
gent. Brazil-wood, obtained from several species of Cse- 
salpina, resembles Logwood ; but has no medicinal powers. 
^Turmeric — Curcuma. The rhizoma of Curcuma 
longa. Gives a yellow infusion ; turned brown by al- 
kalies — hence used as a test. Is a stimulant aromatic. 

E. *C0CHINEAL — COCCUS. 

Coccus Cacti, an hemipterous insect ; used largely as 
a brilliant dye. With Salts of Tin, gives Carmine. Is 
used as an antispasmodic. 

f. Chlorophylle. 

The green colouring matter of leaves and grass. Is a 
mixture of Wax, and a green, fixed Oil. 

VII. ALBUMEN GROUP. 

a. Albumen. 

Exists in white of egg, serum of blood, and in vege- 
tables. 

Prop. Is colourless, inodorous, tasteless, insoluble; 
freely soluble in alkaline solutions. Its solution slowly 
dries into a transparent, horny mass. Natural Albumen, 
which may be regarded as pure Albumen rendered so- 
luble by alkaline substances, is coagulated, 1. By heat, 
the temperature required ranging with the amount of 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 221 

Albumen present. 2. By Nitric, Nitromuriatic, and 
Monobasic Phosphoric Acid. 3. By most of the metallic 
salts ; hence its value as an antidote. 4. By astringent 
infusions, Tannic Acid, and Creasote. 5. By Alcohol. 
The only chemical change that can be detected, after 
coagulation by heat, is the loss of Alkali and soluble 
salts. When coagulated by acids, it combines as a base ; 
when by the metallic salts, combines with the Oxide of the 
metal, acting as an Acid. Heat is not to be alone relied on, 
in testing for Albumen ; as the presence of Alkali in quan- 
tity, of the Mineral Acids, and of Acetic Acid, prevent its 
action. No certain formula can be given for Albumen. 

b. Fibrin. 

Found in the clot of blood, muscular tissue, &c. 

Prop. White, tasteless, inodorous ; spontaneously 
coagulable ) and insoluble, except in alkaline liquids. 
Its solution dries up into a horny mass. Acids convert 
it into a gelatinous mass, soluble in water. Resembles 
Albumen in many of its properties. 

a. Gluten. Obtained from Wheat flour. Is chemi- 
cally identical with Fibrin. 

c. Casein. 

Obtained from the curd of milk. When pure, much 
resembles Albumen, and Fibrin. 

Prop. A white, curdy, tasteless, inodorous, insoluble 
19* 



222 



MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 



substance. Soluble in alkaline solutions, and, to a cer- 
tain extent, in dilute acids. Solution of Casein does not 
coagulate on boiling. Is distinguished from Albumen, 
by affording a precipitate with Acetic Acid. Certain 
animal secretions (Rennet), coagulate it. Legumin, ob- 
tained from peas, beans, &c, is vegetable Casein. 

The analyses of Albumen, Fibrin, and Casein, give: — 





Albumen. 


Fibrin. 


Casein 


Carbon, 


. 53-5 


52-7 


53-83 


Hydrogen, 


. 7-0 


6-9 


7-15 


Nitrogen, 


. 15-5 


15-4 


15-65 


Oxygen, . 
Sulphur, . 


. 22-0 
. 1-6 


23-51 
l'2j 


23-37 


Phosphorus, 


. 0-4 


0-3 





As these substances cannot be obtained crystallized, 
these formulae are only approximative. 



D. Protein. 

Mulder observed, that when any one of the foregoing 
compounds was digested in Caustic Potassa, until no pre- 
cipitate was afforded with a lead salt, and precipitated 
by Acetic Acid, a snow-white, flocculent substance was 
obtained, which, he stated, could be procured entirely 
free from Sulphur and Phosphorus. This substance, 
combined with Sulphur and Phosphorus, he stated, gave 
Albumen, Fibrin, and Casein. The formula, C 24 H 17 N 3 8 , 
has been assigned it. " This is equal to a combination of 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 223 

Cellulose with Ammonia, C 24 H 20 O 20 + 3NH 3 = 12HO + 
C 24 H 17 N 3 8 . The muscular fibre is insoluble Protein, in 
an organized condition, and sustains a similar rank in 
the animal structure to that of Cellulose in the vegetable ; 
while Albumen and Casein are insoluble, unorganized 
forms of Protein, and may be compared to Dextrine and 
Gum." (Hunt.) By the action of various reagents on 
Protein, two crystalline bodies, Leucine, C 12 H 13 N0 4 , and 
Tyrosine, C^H^NOg, are obtained. Chemists are not 
agreed upon these views; and for their discussion, the 
student is referred to works on Organic Chemistry. 

E. Neurine. 

Is the substance proper to the tubes and corpuscles of 
the nervous apparatus. Closely resembling Albumen, in 
composition and properties, it is considered by Robin 
and Verdeil, to be sufficiently distinguished by its semi- 
fluid consistence. Its analysis is not complete. 

F. GrELATIN. 

Nat. Sources. Exists in animal membranes, tendons, 
&c. 

Forms Glue. Is officinal as *Ichthyocolla — Isinglass. 

Prep. Is obtained by boiling. One per cent, will 
cause its solution to form a jelly, on cooling. 

Prop. When pure and dry, is a transparent, colourless, 
tasteless, inodorous substance, insoluble in Alcohol and 



224 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

iEfeher; is precipitated by Alcohol, the Chlorides, and 
Nitrate of Mercury, and Tannic and Gallic Acids. The 
process of tanning depends upon the formation of an inso- 
luble compound of the Gelatin in the hides, with Tannic 
and Gallic Acids of the bark used. Its solution is not 
affected by Alum, or the Acetate of Lead. By boiling 
with strong alkalies, is converted, with evolution of Am- 
monia, into Leucine, and a sweet substance, a. Glycocoll, 
or Sugar of Gelatin, C 4 H 5 N 4 , which yields, with Nitrous 
Acid, Glycocolic Acid, C 4 H 4 6 . The formula, C 52 H 40 N 8 
0^, has been given for Gelatin, b. Chondrin is a Gela- 
tin, obtained from cartilages; it differs from Gelatin, in 
affording precipitates with Alum and Acetate of Lead ; its 
formula has been stated as C^H^NgO^. 

G. Kreatin. 

Prep. Exists in soups, and may be extracted from 
the juice of flesh. 

Prop. Has been obtained in colourless, brilliant crys- 
tals, which are soluble in boiling water, less so in cold ; it 
is a neutral body. Crystallized, its formula is C 8 H g N 3 4 , 
2HO. By the action of Acids, loses the elements of 
water, and is converted into a. Kreatinine, C 8 H 7 N 3 2 , a 
powerful organic base, forming well-defined salts. A 
peculiar Bibasic Acid, 5. Inosinic, C 20 H 14 N 4 O 32 . A pecu- 
liar Sugar, c. Inosite, which does not ferment ; formula, 
C 12 H 12 12 -f 4HO, for the crystals. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 225 

H. Other proximate principles. 

Besides the above, Robin and Verdeil, and others, de- 
scribe as proximate, organic principles, found in the tissues 
or fluids of animal bodies, or produced from them by che- 
mical changes, the following substances, as yet incom- 
pletely known : — 

Albuminose, Pancreatin, Mucosin, Crystallin, Musculin, 
Elasticin, Ostein, Keratin, Bilverdin, Melanin, Mosacin ; 
Synovin, Spermatin. 

i. Blood. 

Prop. When freshly drawn, is a homogeneous, slightly 
viscid, alkaline liquid, of a peculiar odour, and saltish 
taste ] the colour varies from the bright red of arterial, to 
the dark purple of venous blood. Under the microscope, 
is seen to consist of a transparent, nearly colourless fluid 
(liquor sanguinis), in which float red discs, the blood cor- 
puscles, and colourless globules, the white corpuscles. It 
soon coagulates after being drawn, forming a clot, which 
consists of fibrin and blood-globules, and a liquid serum, 
containing albumen and salts. It consists proximately of 



Water, 


784- 


Red Corpuscles, 


131- 


Albumen, .... 


70- 


Salts, 


6-03 


Extractive, Fatty matters, &c, 


6-77 


Fibrin, 


2-2 



1000-00 



226 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

The red corpuscles consist of a. Globulin y a substance 
which has not been satisfactorily separated, but resembling 
Albumen, and of b. Ecematin, the red colouring matter. 
This is remarkable for containing a large proportion of 
Iron, which is not precipitated by the usual tests for that 
metal. Mulder's analysis gives 



Carbon, 


65-84 


Hydrogen, 


6-37 


Nitrogen, 


10-4 


Oxygen, . ; 


11-75 


Iron, 


6-64 



100 00 

The colour of Haematine does not depend wholly upon 
its iron, as it is not lost upon the removal of that metal. 
The proportion of Globuline to Hsematine, is stated as 
123-5 to 74. 

The Extractive matters consist principally of Kreatine, 
the fatty matters of a peculiar fat Seroline, Cholesterine, a 
fat found in the bile, Cerebrine, a fat found in the brain, 
with Oleic and Margaric Acids, and traces of others. 

The Salts are Chlorides of Sodium, Potassium, Tribasic 
Phosphate of Soda, Carbonate and Sulphate of Soda, and 
Phosphates of Lime, Magnesia, and Iron. Urea, biliary 
colouring matter, salivary matter, Oxygen, Nitrogen, and 
Carbonic Acid, are also found in varying quantities. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 227 

K. Chyle and Lymph. 

Differ from blood, chiefly in the absence of the red cor- 
puscles, and in containing a less proportion of Fibrin. The 
Chyle, as taken from the lacteals, contains a large propor- 
tion of fatty matter. 

l. Bile. 

A somewhat viscid fluid, of a varying yellow or green- 
ish colour, strongly bitter taste, and disagreeable smell; 
Sp. Gr. 1-026 to 1-030. Is neutral, but as it decomposes, 
becomes first acid, then alkaline. Bile contains, besides 
mucus, fat, and the salts usually found in the secretions, 
a peculiar crystalline fat, a. Cholesterine, C 37 H 32 0, not 
saponifiable, fusing at 275°, soluble in Alcohol and iEther. 
Biliary Calculi are composed almost wholly of Choles- 
terine. The principle of Bile, b. Bilin ) remaining after 
the removal of Cholesterine, fats, and salts, is believed, by 
Mulder and Berzelius, to be a peculiar resinoid substance, 
yielding, on decomposition, various acids and bases, as the 
Tauric, Cholic, Fellinic Acids, and Picromel and Taurine. 
It is a slightly yellowish, brittle mass, freely soluble in 
Water, and absolute Alcohol. Strecker regards it as a 
compound of two peculiar acids, the Glycho-clioleic, and 
Tauro-choleic, with Soda. 

M. Saliva. 

A transparent, watery fluid, of an alkaline reaction ; Sp. 



228 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Gr. 1*006 to 1-009. Contains, besides Water, Mucus, 
Albumen, Fatty matter, and the usual Salts, a peculiar 
principle, Pty aline, and Sulphocyanogen in combination. 
The presence of the latter may be an important source of 
fallacy in applying the Iron test for Hydrocyanic Acid. 
Saliva contains 12 per cent, of Chloride of Sodium ; a 
larger proportion than any other animal fluid. The 
Pancreatic Juice resembles Saliva in composition, but does 
not contain Sulphocyanogen. 

n. Milk. 

Under the microscope, is seen to consist of a clear liquid, 
in which are suspended numerous globules; these consist 
of fat (butter), surrounded by an albuminous envelope, 
which may be broken by mechanical violence (churning), 
or dissolved by Caustic Potassa. Milk contains Watsr, 
Butter, Casein, Milk Sugar, and the usual Salts of animal 
secretions. It is at first alkaline, but becomes acid, owing 
to the formation of Lactic Acid. 

o. Gastric Juice. 

Contains free Muriatic and Lactic Acids, and Phosphate 
of Lime, the Chlorides of Potassium, Sodium, Calcium, and 
Magnesium, and a peculiar principle, Pepsin, a. Pepsin, pos- 
sesses the property of digesting most alimentary substances, 
when kept at the temperature of the stomach, and in con- 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 229 

tact with a dilute solution of Muriatic, Lactic, or Phos- 
phoric Acids. 

p. Urine. 

Prop. Varies exceedingly in properties and composition, 
with the individual, nature of the ingesta, temperature, 
&c. Colour, varies from that of water to deep red ; odour, 
peculiar, faint and aromatic, becoming offensive and am- 
moniacal from decomposition; is transparent when first 
voided, but may become clouded from deposition of mucus 
and salts when cool; average Sp. Gr. 1-020. Reaction in 
health, acid, becomes alkaline by decomposition, and may 
be rendered so by alkalies and vegetable diet. The fol- 
lowing analysis by Becquerel gives its average compo- 
sition : — 



Water, 


967- 


Urea, 


14-230 


Uric Acid, .... 


•468 


Colouring and Extractive 




Matter and Mucus, 


10-167 


Salts, 


8-135 


Silica, 


traces. 




1000-000 



a, Urea, C 3 H 4 2 N 2 . 

Forms nearly one-half of the solid matter of the urine. 
20 



230 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Prop. It contains the elements of Cyanate of Am- 
monia, NH 4 0,NC 2 0, and may be artificially made by 
direct combination. It is one of the few organic sub- 
stances which have been formed artificially. Is in trans- 
parent, colourless, four-sided prisms, soluble in an equal 
weight of cold Water and in Alcohol ; inodorous ; of a 
cooling, saline taste, and is permanent in the air, and in 
solution, if putrescible organic matter be absent; is 
decomposed by heat, &c, with evolution of Ammonia; it 
is neutral in reaction, but combines with acids to form 
well-defined salts. Nitrate of Urea is isomorphous with 
Saltpetre. When not excreted Urea causes Coma. 

Use. Has been used as a diuretic. 

b. Uric Acid, C 10 H 4 N 4 O 6 . 

Exists in small quantity in human urine, abundantly 
in combination in that of Serpents and Birds. 

Prop. Is white, tasteless, inodorous, and soluble only 
in 2000 parts of hot Water j it is bibasic, forms sparingly 
soluble urates. A series of very interesting compounds 
are formed by the reaction of chemical agents upon it. 
Its solution in Nitric Acid is coloured a beautiful purple 
by Ammonia, forming Murexide, which has been used as 
a dye. The crystals of Murexide give by reflection a 
metallic-green lustre, like the wing-cases of beetles ; by 
transmitted light a deep purple-red. 

c. Eippuric Acid, C J8 H 8 N 5 HO. 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 231 

Exists largely in the urine of the Herbivora, also in 
human urine, when Benzoic Acid has been taken. 

Prop. It crystallizes in long, slender, milk-white 
prisms, of a bitter taste and acid reaction ; soluble in 400 
parts cold Water and in boiling Alcohol. Forms Hlppu- 
rates. By boiling Hydrochloric Acid is converted into 
Benzoic Acid and G-lycocoll (Sugar of Gelatine). 
When urine containing Hippuric Acid is allowed to pu- 
trefy, it is entirely converted into Benzoic Acid : much of 
the Benzoic Acid of commerce is thus obtained. 

Urinary Calculi. 

Are formed of concentric layers of earthy deposits and 
mucus. Various deposits sometimes alternate in the same 
calculus ; frequently in the centre is found a foreign body 
as a nucleus. 

1. Uric Acid. 
Are common. 

Prop. Externally are smooth or warty, of a yellowish 
or brownish tint; before the blow-pipe burn away, leaving 
no ash - } insoluble in water ; may be dissolved by the aid 
of Caustic Potassa, from which a copious white, curdy 
precipitate of Uric Acid falls upon the addition of acid. 
Dissolved in Nitric Acid, gives the characteristic purple- 
red of Murexide upon the addition of Ammonia. 

2. Urate of Ammonia. 

Prop. Differs from the last in being soluble in boiling 



232 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Water; the addition of Hydrochloric Acid gives a precipi- 
tate of Uric Acid. Dissolves in a hot solution of Car- 
bonate of Ammonia with evolution of Ammonia. 

3. Fusible Calculus — Phosphate of , Lime, with Phos- 
phate of Magnesia and Ammonia. 

Are also common. 

Prop. These Calculi are soft and smooth, frequently 
of large size ; blacken before the blowpipe, then become 
white and melt to a bead ; insoluble in Caustic Alkali ; 
soluble in dilute Acid, which solution is precipitated by 
Ammonia. Calculi of unmixed Phosphate of Lime and 
of Phosphate of Magnesia and Ammonia (Microcosmic 
Salt), are sometimes found. The latter is obtained when 
putrescent urine is evaporated. 

4. Mulberry Calculus — Oxalate of Lime. 

Prop. Is usually very rough and hard. Before the 
blowpipe the Oxalate of Lime burns to Carbonate, and 
finally to Quicklime. Soluble in Hydrochloric Acid by 
the aid of heat, and easily in Nitric Acid. Long boiled 
with Carbonate of Potassa, Oxalate of Potassa may be 
found in the liquid. 

5. Cystic Oxide, C 6 H 6 NS 2 4 . 

A rare form ; remarkable for containing a large propor- 
tion of Sulphur. 

Prop. Is of a pale colour; waxy appearance externally . 
Dissolves in great part without effervescence in dilute 
Acids and Alkalies, including Ammonia. By long boil- 



ORGANIC CHEMISTRY. 233 

ing with Caustic Alkalies, Ammonia is disengaged. It 
forms a saline compound with Hydrochloric Acid. 

6. Xanthic Oxide, C 5 H a N 2 2 . 

Also very rare. 

Prop. Is of a pale brown colour; waxy appearance ; 
nearly insoluble in water and dilute acids; dissolves 
quietly in Nitric Acid ; the solution, on evaporation, gives 
a deep yellow residue, becoming yellowish-brown on addi- 
tion of Ammonia. Calculi should be in powder, when 
submitted to the action of reagents. 



20* 



APPENDIX. 



LIST OF THE MORE COMMON POISONS, WITH THEIR 
CHEMICAL ANTIDOTES. 

[Note. In all cases, the poison, or its compound with 
the antidote, should be as speedily as possible removed 
from the stomach, and its general and local effects com- 
bated by general measures.] 

A. Strong Acids. Alkalies, Earths. (Soap, Mag- 
nesia, Chalk, &c.) 

j Oxalic Acid, 1 Lime. (Chalk, plaster of 
I Tartaric Acid. J walls, or ceilings.) 

B. Acid Salts. Those for Acids. 

a. Binoxalate of Potassa, Salt of Sorrel. Lime. 

C. Caustic Alkalies, 1 ■ ■_ 

Weak Acids (vinegar, 
Carbonates of the > _ . . „ N ^.«, 

lemon juice, &c. ), Oil. 
Alkalies. J 

D. Earths. 



236 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

a. Baryta Salts. The soluble Sulphates. Elixir of 
Vitriol. 

b. Alum. Carbonates of Soda, and Ammonia. 
E. Salts of the Metals. 

A. Soluble Lead Salts. The soluble Sulphates. 

a. White lead. Dilute vinegar, with a soluble Sulphate. 

B. Tin Salts. Magnesia, the Carbonates of Soda, Milk. 

c. Zinc Salts, V Carbonates of Soda, Magnesia, or 
D. Iron Salts. J Ammonia. 

e. Copper Salts, 1 Albumen, Casein (milk), Glu- 

f. Mercury Salts. J ten (flour paste). 
G. Nitrate of Silver. Common Salt. 
h. Antimony. 

a. Tartar Emetic. Vegetable astringents, Mag- 
nesia. 

b. Chloride of Antimony. Carbonate of Soda, or 
Magnesia. 

I. Arsenious Acid. Hydrated Sesquioxide of Iron. 
Magnesia ? *Ferri Subcarb. ? 

a. Fowler's Solution. Acetate of the Sesquioxide of 
Iron. 

k. Iodine. Boiled Starch. 

l. Hydrocyanic Acid. Ammonia; Chlorine (taken, 
and cautiously inhaled). Salts of the Sesquioxide of Iron, 
followed by the Alkaline Carbonates ? Cold Douche to 
the Spine. 

m. The Alkaloids. Tannic Acid? Animal Charcoal? 



APPENDIX. 237 

a. Strychnia. Camphor? 

n. Venom of Serpents, and Insects. Ammonia, lo- 
cally and generally — (Cauterization; ligature between the 
wound and trunk; a cupping-glass over the wound). 
Iodine (Brainard). 

o. Bites oe Rabid Animals, Dissecting Wounds, 
Pusttjla Maligna. No direct antidote. Cauterization, 
and the general measures noted in the last paragraph. 



II. 

LIST OF THE MORE COMMON INCOMPATIBLES. 

A. Acids, and Acidulous Salts. All Alkalies, 
Ammonia; most Oxides, Carbonates, Sulphides, Iodides, 
Bromides, Cyanides, and Binary Compounds generally, 
except Alloys ; the more easily Oxidized Metals. The 
stronger acids decompose the salts of the weaker. 

A. Especial Acids, and their Salts. Incompatible, 
besides the above, with the substances affixed. 

a. Sulphuric. The Nitrates, Phosphates, Chlorates 
(when concentrated) ; the Salts of the Organic Acids, and 
those of the soluble Sulphates generally. 

Soluble Sulphates. Salts of Baryta, Strontia, Lime, 
Lead, Mercury (generally), Silver. 



238 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

b. Nitric Acid. The Phosphates, Chlorates, Arseni- 
ous Acid, Salts of Antimony, those of the Vegetable 
Acids. 

c. Hydrochloric Acid. The Salts of the Organic Acids, 
those of the soluble Chlorides. 

Chlorides. Salts of Lead, Copper, Silver. 

d. Tartaric, and Citric Acids. Salts of the Earths, 
and of most of the Metals. 

e. Hydrocyanic Acid. Calomel, Paregoric, Nitrate of 
Silver, Sulphate of Copper. 

f. Carbonic Acid. 

Carbonates of the Alkalies. All Acids, and Acidulous 
salts ; most Metallic Solutions. 

B. Metallic Salts. The Alkalies; Ammonia; Alka- 
line Earths, and their Carbonates generally ; Soap. 

A. Especial Salts. Incompatible, besides the above, 
with the substances affixed. 

a. Of Lime. Sulphuric, Oxalic, Phosphoric, Citric, 
and Tartaric Acids ; and their Salts generally. 

b. Alum. Salts of Lead. 

c. Iron. Vegetable Astringents, Tartrates, Alkaline 
Carbonates, Iodine, Iodides. 

d. Lead. Tartaric, Sulphuric, Hydrochloric, Phos- 
phoric, Chromic, and Citric Acids and their Salts gene- 
rally; Iodides, Vegetable Astringents, and Infusions. 

e. Copper. Nitrate of Silver, Phosphates, Chlorides of 
the Alkalies, Vegetable Astringents. 



APPENDIX. 239 

f. Calomel. Hydrocyanic Acid, Sulphides, Iodides. 

g. Corrosive Sublimate. Iodides, Sulphides, Tartar 
Emetic, Acetate of Lead, Vegetable Astringents, Albu- 
men, &c. 

h. Nitrate of Silver. Soluble Chlorides, Iodides, Sul- 
phates, Vegetable Astringents. 



III. 

GLOSSARY. 

[The figures in parentheses ( ), refer to the pages of this work.] 



Acetone. A peculiar, volatile, inflammable liquid; 
obtained by distilling the anhydrous acetates ; is 
frequently confounded in prescriptions with Wood 
Spirit (189). 

Acid. The electro-negative element of a compound, con- 
taining more than two elements. Acids, when solu- 
ble, have generally a sour taste and redden vegetable 
blues. They may be either Oxyacids, Hydracids, 
or Sulphur Acids (q. v.). 

Actinism. A term employed to designate the chemical 
effects of light. 



240 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

iEoLOPiLE. An instrument for producing a blast by 
means of the vapour of a liquid heated in a close 
vessel. 

JErugo. Verdigris (156). 

iETHiop's Mineral. Protosulphide of Mercury (166). 

Aereometer. An instrument for the determination of 
specific gravities. 

Affinity. The tendency of bodies to combine (15). 

Amphide Salt. A salt consisting of a union of an 
Acid of Oxygen, Sulphur, Selenium, or Tellurium, 
with a base of the same elements (66). 

Amphigen. Synonymous with Basacigen. 

Alembic. A still, with a cap, from which proceeds a 
tube, used in Sublimation. 

Alkalimetry. The process for determining the quan- 
tity of Alkali in a given solution. 

Alkaloid. A term applied to the Vegetable Alkalies, 
as Quinia. 

Alkarsin. Oxide of Kakodyl (200). 

Allotropism. A term used to designate the different 
conditions or states, in which the same elementary 
body may occur (55). 

Alloy. The combination of two metals. 

Amalgam. The union of Mercury with a metal. 

Analysis. The determination of the constituents of a 
compound. It may be qualitative, which deter- 
mines their nature, or quantitative, which fixes their 
amount. 



APPENDIX. 241 

Anhydrous. Free from Water. 

Antimonial Wine. A solution of Tartar Emetic in 
Sherry Wine (148). 

Aqua Fortis. Impure Nitric Acid (44). 

Aqua Eegia. Nitromuriatic Acid (69). 

Anode. The positive pole of a galvanic battery (Zincoid). 

Argillaceous. — Containing Clay. 

Argol. Crude Cream of Tartar (88). 

Atom. The ultimate particle of an element or compound. 

Atomic Number. The specific gravity of a substance 
divided by its equivalent.. 

Atomic Volume. The equivalent of a substance, di- 
vided by its specific gravity. 

Atomic Weight. Equivalent (16). 

Austral. The Southern Polarity of a magnet (27). 

Azote. Nitrogen. 

Azotic Acid. Nitric Acid (44). 

b. * 

Barilla. The ashes of sea-plants. It contains Carbo- 
nate of Soda (91). 

Basacigen. A term applied to elements, as Oxygen, 
which, combining with others, form either Acids or 
Bases. 

Base. A substance capable of combining with acids to 
form salts. 

Basic. A substance possessing the properties of a base ; 
21 



242 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

also applied to a compound in which the base is in 
excess (75). 

Basyl. Hydrogen, the metals, and the quasi-metals. 

Battery. An apparatus for the accumulation of elec- 
tricity (30). 

Besterchef's Tincture. An ethereal solution of the 
Sesquichloride of Iron. 

Binary. A compound of two elements. 

Bittern. The liquid left after the separation of Com- 
mon Salt from sea-water. 

Black Flux. A mixture of Carbon and Carbonate of 
Potassa. Is made by heating Cream of Tartar in a 
close vessel. 

Black Lead. Plumbago. 

Black Wash. Is made by adding Calomel to Lime- 
Water; it contains Protoxide of Mercury. 

Bleaching Powder. Chlorinated Lime (110). 

Blue Mass. *Pilul^e Hydrargyri (163). 

Blue Ointment. *Unguentum Hydrargyri (164). 

Blue Vitriol. Sulphate of Copper (155). 

Bone Ash. Consists principally of Basic Phosphate of 
Lime, with Lime. Is obtained by calcining bones, 
by which their animal matter is destroyed (62). 

Bone Black. Animal Charcoal, obtained by the dry 
distillation of bones. It contains their earthy con- 
stituents (47). 

Borax. Biborate of Soda (97). 

Boreal. The Northern Polarity of a magnet (2). 



APPENDIX. 243 

§ 

Brimstone. Roll Sulphur (55). 

British Gum. Dextrine (181). 

Burnett's Disinfecting Fluid. Solution of Chloride 
of Zinc (160). 

Butter of Antimony. Chloride of Antimony (148). 

Butter of Zinc. Chloride of Zinc (160). 

C. 

Cadet's Liquid. Alkarsin (200). 

Calamine. Impure, native Carbonate of Zinc (159). 

Calcination. Exposure of substances to a high heat in 
an open vessel, so that the Oxygen of the air may 
combine with their oxidizable constituents. 

Calomel. Protocbloride of Mercury (167). 

Caramel. Burned Sugar (184). 

Carbolic Acid. Coal-tar Creasote. 

Catalysis. The action of a body in promoting Combi- 
nation, or Decomposition, by its presence, the body 
itself remaining unchanged. 

Cathode. The negative pole of a Galvanic Battery 
(Chloroid). 

Cellulose. Lignin (181). 

Chalk. An amorphous Carbonate of Lime (109). 

Chameleon Mineral. Manganate of Potassa. 

Chloroid. The negative pole, or that connected with 
the Zinc Plate of a Battery. 

Choke Damp. Carbonic Acid. 

Chrome Yellow. Chromate of Lead (134). 



244 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Chrome Green. A mixture of Chrome Yellow, and 
Prussian Blue; or Sesquioxide of Chromium (134). 

Cinnabar. Bisulphide of Mercury (167). 

Citrine Ointment. Ointment of the Nitrate of Mer- 
cury (166). 

Colcothar. Sesquioxide of Iron. 

Colophony. Common Resin, or Rosin. 

Combining Weight. Equivalent. 

Common Salt. Chloride of Sodium (95). 

Copperas. Green Vitriol (127). 

Corrosive Sublimate. Bichloride of Mercury (169). 

Cream of Tartar. Bitartrate of Potassa (88). 

Crocus of Antimony. Oxysulphide of Antimony. 

Crocus Martis. Colcothar. 

Cubic Nitre. Nitrate of Soda. 

D. 

Decantation. Pouring off, or drawing off with a 
syphon. 

Decoction. The extraction of vegetable, or animal 
matter, by boiling; or the solution thus obtained. 

Decrepitation. The crackling of certain Salts, when 
suddenly heated. 

Deflagration. A rapid and scintillating combustion. 
Takes place in certain mixtures containing the Ni- 
trates, or Chlorates. 

Deliquescent. A term applied to those substances 



APPENDIX. 245 

whose attraction for water is such, that they become 
moist, or liquid in the air. 

Destructive Distillation. Dry distillation. 

Detonation. Rapid chemical action, accompanied by 
flame and noise. 

Dew-point. The temperature at which the moisture of 
the air begins to deposit. 

Digestion. The soaking of a body, for a long time, in 
hot water. 

Dimorphous. A term applied to substances, which 
crystallize in two distinct and incompatible forms. 

Displacement. A method of extracting the soluble 
portions of vegetable or animal matters, by causing 
the menstruum to filter through a given bulk. 

Distillation. The process for separating a liquid from 
a solid or less volatile liquid, by heating the mixed 
substances, and collecting the condensed vapour. 

Donovan's Solution. The solution of the Iodide of 
Arsenic and Mercury (171). 

Dry Distillation. The process by which solid, or or- 
ganic bodies, are subjected to heat in a close vessel. 

Ductile. Capable of being drawn out into wire. 

E. 

Eau de Javelle. A solution of Chlorinated Potassa, 
similar in composition to the solution of Chlorinated 
Soda. 

21* 



246 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Ebullition. The bubbling of a boiling liquid. 

Effervescence. The bubbling from the escape of gas 
from a liquid. 

Efflorescence. A property peculiar to certain salts, 
which, exposed to the air, crumble, owing to the loss 
of a portion of their water of crystallization. The 
term is also employed to designate the crust formed 
by the drying of certain salts upon the surface of 
bodies, in which they are not visible. 

Electrode. The pole of a galvanic battery. 

Electrolysis. Voltaic decomposition. 

Element. A simple, undecomposable substance. 

Elixir of Vitriol. Aromatic Sulphuric Acid (59). 

Elutriation. A process for separating the grosser por- 
tions of an insoluble powder by suspending it in 
Water, allowing partial subsidence, drawing off the 
liquid containing the lighter portions, which are 
then allowed to settle (109). 

Epsom Salt. Sulphate of Magnesia (114). 

Equivalent. The proportional numbers, according to 
which, or their multiples, bodies combine. 

Eremacausis. The slow decay of organic substances, 
not containing Nitrogen (182). 

Essential Oils. Volatile Oils. 

Eudiometer. An instrument for ascertaining the 
amount of Oxygen in a gaseous body, by introducing 
an excess of Hydrogen, exploding the mixture, and 
noting the diminution of volume. 



APPENDIX. 247 

Evaporation. Conversion into vapour, without ebul- 
lition. 

F. 

Fermentation. Decomposition by example (86). 

Filter. A porous substance, used to separate a solid 
and liquid, by allowing the latter to pass through, 
while the former is retained. 

Fire Damp. Light Carbonetted Hydrogen (Marsh Gas) 
(54). 

Fluor Spar. Fluoride of Calcium (74). 

Fowler's Solution. Solution of the Arsenite of Po- 
tassa (144). 

Flowers of Sulphur. Sublimed Sulphur (55). 

Flowers of Zinc. Oxide of Zinc (157). 

Flowers of Antimony. Oxide of Antimony (145). 

Flowers of Benzoin. Benzoic Acid. 

Fusel Oil. Amylic Alcohol (189). 

Fusion. The passage of a solid into the liquid state by 
heat. 

Fusible Calculus. Phosphate of Lime, with Phos- 
phate of Magnesia and Ammonia. 

G. 

Galena. Native Sulphide of Lead. 
Gas. An elastic fluid. 

Glass. An union of Silicic Acid with a base : generally 
an Alkali, Earth, or the Oxides of Lead and Iron. 



248 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Glass or Antimony. Boasted and fused Tersulphide of 

Antimony. 
Glass of Borax. Fused Borax. 
Glauber's Salt. Sulphate of Soda (93). 
Glucose. Grape Sugar (185). 
Glycocoll. Sugar of Gelatine. 
Golden Sulphur. Pentasulphide of Antimony, SbS 3 . 

Is a Sulphur Acid (145) 
Goniometer. An instrument for measuring the angles 

of crystals. 
Goulard's Extract. Solution of the Subacetate of 

Lead (153). 
Goulard's Cerate. Cerate of the Subacetate of Lead 

(154). 
Graphite. Plumbago (46). 
Green Vitriol. Sulphate of the Protoxide of Iron 

(Protosulphate of Iron) (127). 
Gypsum. Sulphate of Lime (111). 

H. 

Halogen. An element capable of combining directly 

with a metal to form a salt (65). 
Haloid Salt. A Binary compound, formed by the union 

of an Halogen with a metal (65). 
Hartshorn. Ammonia (101). 
Hepar Sulphuris. Liver of Sulphur (83). 



APPENDIX. 249 

Hoffman's Anodyne. Compound Spirit of JEther 

(192). 
Homologous. A term applied to a series of analogous 

substances, whose composition varies by C a H 2 , or a 

multiple of it (Gerhart). 
Hydracid. Hydrogen-Acid. An acid, consisting of a 

salt radical united with Hydrogen (66). 
Hydrate. A combination of Water with an acid or a 

base. 
Hydriodate. A salt of Hydriodic Acid. Is an incor- 
rect term ; Iodide of the, metal should be used. 
Hydrometer. An instrument for the determination of 

the specific gravities of liquids. 
Hygrometer. An instrument for the determination of 

the relative amount of moisture in the air. 

I. 

Imponderable. Without weight ; employed to designate 
Light, Heat, Electricity, and Magnetism. 

Incandescence. The glow of a highly heated body. 

Incineration. The reduction of a substance to ashes. 

Incompatible. Incapable of being mixed without che- 
mical change. 

Infusion. Steeping a body in hot or cold water for a 
short time, or the solution thus obtained. 

Inosite. Sugar of flesh. 



250 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Ion. A body going to the positive (anode) or negative 
(cathode) pole of a galvanic battery, during elec- 
trolysis. 

Iodic ^Ether. Iodide of JEthyl. 

Iron Pyrites. Native Sulphide of Iron. 

Isomeric. Substances having the same composition, with 
different properties. 

Isomorphous. Substances having the same crystalline 
form. 

Isinglass. G-elatine. 

Ivory Black. Animal Charcoal, made by distilling 
Ivory scraps; is generally applied to Bone Black 
(47). 

J. 

James's Powder. Pulvis Antimonialis (149). 

K. 

Kermes' Mineral. A variable mixture of Tersulphide 
and Oxysulphide of Antimony, with Sulphide of 
Potassium (146). 

Kelp. Ashes of sea-weeds ; used as a source of Iodine 
(70). 

L. 

Labarraque's Disinfecting Liquid. Solution of Chlori- 
nated Soda (96). 



APPENDIX. 251 

Lac Sulphuris. Milk of Sulphur (56). 

Lactin. Sugar of Milk. 

Lampblack. Finely divided Carbon, obtained from the 
smoke of Tar, &c. 

Lapis Infernalis. Lunar Caustic (174). 

Laughing Gas. Protoxide of Nitrogen (43). 

Lead Water. Diluted Goulard's Extract (154). 

Ledoyen's Disinfecting Liquid. Solution of Nitrate of 
Lead (151). 

Levigation. The reduction of a substance to an impalpa- 
ble powder, by rubbing on a slab, with a flat pestle, 
called a muller (109). 

Limestone. A Carbonate of Lime. 

Liquefaction. The conversion of a solid into liquid; 
also applied to the conversion of a vapour into a 
liquid. 

Litharge. Semi vitrified Oxide of Lead (150). 

Lithic Acid. Uric Acid. 

Liver of Sulphur. Sulphide of Potassium (83). 

Lixiviation. The separation of the soluble portions of 
a substance, by causing water to filter through it. 

Loadstone. The native magnetic Oxide of Iron. 

Lugol's Solution. Compound Solution of Iodine (72). 

Lunar Caustic. Nitrate of Silver (174). 

Lute. Adhesive mixtures for closing the joints of appa- 
ratus, to prevent the escape of vapours, &c. 



252 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

M. 

Maceration. The long-continued soaking of a sub- 
stance in water, at common temperatures. 

Magma. A molasses-like mass (139). 

Magnesia Alba. Carbonate of Magnesia (113). 

Malleable. Capable of being beaten out into leaves. 

Marble. Crystallized Carbonate of Lime. 

Massicot. Protoxide of Lead (149). 

Matrass. A glass vessel, with a long neck, used for 
digestion. 

Menstruum. The liquid employed to dissolve sub- 
stances. 

Mercaptan. Alcohol, in which all the Oxygen is re- 
placed by Sulphur (C 4 H 6 S 2 ). 

Microcosmic Salt. Phosphate of Soda and Ammonia. 

Milk of Sulphur. Precipitated Sulphur (56). 

Mineral Water. Water charged with Carbonic Acid ; 
also, natural waters holding medicinal substances in 
solution (50). 

Minium. Red Oxide of Lead (149). 

Molecules. The elementary, or compound atoms of 
bodies. 

Mulberry Calculus. Oxalate of Lime. 

Muriatic Acid. Hydrochloric (68). 

Muriate. The compound of Muriatic Acid with a 



APPENDIX. 253 

base. Properly the Chloride of the metal of the 
base (66). 
Muriated Tincture of Iron. Tincture of the Sesqui- 
chloride (129.) 

N. 

Naphtha. A natural, oily Carbohydrogen, C^H^. 

Nascent. Recently liberated from combination. 

Neutral. 1. Possessing neither Acid nor Alkaline re- 
action. 2. Having no tendency to combine with 
acids or bases. 3. Applied to Salts, where the 
number of equivalents of the Acid is equal to those 
of the Oxygen in. the base. 

Neutral Mixture. Solution of Citrate of Potassa (82). 

Nitre. Saltpetre (80). 

O. 

Oil of Vitriol. Hydrated Sulphuric Acid (58). 
Orpiment. Yellow Sulphide of Arsenic, AsS 3 . 
Oxyacids. Oxygen Acids; acids, whose electro-negative 

constituent is Oxygen. 
Oxychloride. The combination of the Chloride and 

Oxide of a metal. 
Oxysalt. The union of an Oxygen Acid with a base 

containing Oxygen. 

22 



254 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Oxysulphide. The combination of the Oxide and Sul- 
phide of a metal. 

P. 

Particle. Atom. 

Pearl Ash. Impure Carbonate of Potassa (81). 

Pearl Powder. Subnitrate of Bismuth (136). 

Photography. The art of taking pictures by light. 

Picric Acid. Carbazotic Acid. 

Plaster of Paris. Sulphate of Lime (111).. 

Platinum, Black and Sponge. Finely divided Plati- 
num (176). 

Plumbago. Carbon (46). 

Potash. Impure Carbonate of Potassa. 

Powder of Algaroth. Oxychloride of Antimony (147). 

Prussic Acid. Hydrocyanic Acid (51). 

Prussian Blue. Ferrocyanide of Iron (133). 

Pseudomorph. A mineral body, crystallized in the form 
that belongs to another mineral. 

Putty Powder. Stannic Acid (135). 

Purgative Mineral Water. Solution of Citrate of 
Magnesia (114). 

Pyro. A prefix, to distinguish a body, altered by heat ; 
from the one from which it is derived. 

PyROPHOROUS. A powder, capable of igniting spontane- 
ously in the air. 



APPENDIX. 255 

Pyroxiltc Spirit. Wood Alcohol (197). 
Pyroxyline. Gun-cotton (181). 
Pyrites. Sulphide of Iron, or Copper. 

Q. 

Quaternary. The union of two ternary compounds. 
Quevenne's Iron. Powder of Iron (121). 
Quicklime. Caustic Lime. 
Quicksilver. Mercury. 

K. 

Reagent. An agent employed as a chemical test, or in 
chemical operations. 

Realgar. Red Sulphide of Arsenic, AsS 2 . 

Red Precipitate. Binoxide of Mercury (165). 

Red Prussiate of Potash. Ferricyanide of Potas- 
sium (204). 

Regulus of Antimony. Metallic Antimony. 

Rochelle Salt. Tartrate of Potassa and Soda (98). 

Rouge. Sesquioxide of Iron. 

Rust. Oxide of Iron ; generally Hydrated Sesquioxide. 

S. 

Saccharum Saturni. Sugar of Lead. 
Sal Acetosella. Binoxalate of Potassa. 



256 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

Sal Aeratus. Bicarbonate of Potassa (82). 

Sal Ammoniac. Chloride of Ammonium. 

Sal Alembroth. Double Chloride of Mercury and 
Ammonium (103). 

Sal Diureticus. Acetate of Potassa (87). 

Sal Enixum. Bisulphate of Potassa. 

Sal Mirabile. Sulphate of Soda (93). 

Sal Perlatum. Phosphate of Soda (94). 

Sal Prunelle. Fused Nitre (80). 

Salogens. Salt radicals. 

Salt. The union of an acid with a base, or of a halo- 
gen with a metal. 

Salt Kadicals. The electro-negative group : Oxygen, 
Sulphur, the Halogens. 

Salt of Lemons. Binoxalate of Potassa. 

Salt of Sorrel. Binoxalate of Potassa. 

Salt of Tartar. Pure Carbonate of Potassa (82). 

Saltpetre. Nitrate of Potassa (80). 

Saturation. 1. The solution of a body in a liquid, 
until it refuses to dissolve more; 2. The neutrali- 
zation of a base by an acid, or of an acid by a base. 

Scheele's Green. Arsenite of Copper. 

Seidlitz Powders. Contain Rochelle Salt (98). 

Seignette's Salt. Rochelle Salt (98). 

Soda Ash. Crude Carbonate of Soda (92). 

Soda Saltpetre. Nitrate of Soda. 

Soluble Tartar. Neutral Tartrate of Potassa (88). 



APPENDIX. 257 

Solution. The union of a solid, liquid, or gas, with a 
liquid, in which it disappears or becomes liquid. 

Spelter. Zinc. 

Spirit of Hartshorn. Spirit of Ammonia (101). 

Spirit of Mindererus. Solution of Acetate of Ammo- 
nia (104). 

Spirit of Nitre. Spirit of Nitric JEther (193). 

Spirit of Salt. Muriatic Acid. 

Spirit of Wine. Alcohol (193). 

Sublimation. The process of separating a volatile 
solid from one more fixed, by the application of heat. 
The condensed body is called a Sublimate. 

Substitution. The replacement of an element or com- 
pound by another. 

Sugar of Lead. Acetate of Lead. 

Sulphuret. Sulphide (153). 

Sulphuretted Hydrogen. Hydrosulphuric Acid (60). 

Sulphuric JEther. JEther (190). 

Sulphur Acid. An acid in which Sulphur is the elec- 
tro-negative element. 

Sulphur Base. A Sulphide capable of combining with 
a Sulphur Acid. 

Sulphur Salt. The union of a Sulphur Acid and Sul- 
phur Base. 

Sulphur Lotum. Washed Sulphur (56). 

Sulphur Viyum. Impure Sulphur, Horse Brimstone. 

Supercarbonate. Bicarbonate. 



258 MEDICAL CHEMISTRY. 

T. 

Tannin. Tannic Acid. 

Tartar Emetic. Tartrate of Antimony and Potassa (147). 
Tasteless Purging Salt. Phosphate of Soda (94). 
Ternary. The union of two binary compounds. 
Tincture. A solution in Alcohol. When in JEther, is 

called an JEthereal Tincture. 
Trituration. Rubbing in a mortar. 
Turnbull's Blue. Ferricyanide of Iron, Fe 3 Cfdy (204). 
Turner's Cerate. Calamine Cerate (159).. 
Turpeth Mineral. Yellow Sulphate of Mercury (167). 
Tutty. Impure Oxide of Zinc. 

W. 

Whiting. Prepared Chalk. 

White Arsenic. Arsenious Acid (138). 

White Lead. Carbonate of Lead (151). 

White Precipitate. Chloramide of Mercury (172). 

White Vitriol. Sulphate of Zinc (160). 

Wood Naphtha. Wood Spirit (197). 

Wood Spirit. Methyl Alcohol (197). 



Yellow Prussiate of Potash. Ferrocyanide of Potas- 
sium (89). 



APPENDIX. 259 

Fellow Wash. Made by adding Corrosive Sublimate 
to Lime Water; Hydrated Binoxide of Mercury is 
formed (165). 

Z. 

Zincoid. The positive pole of a battery ; that connected 

with the Copper or Platinum plate. 
Zinc White. Oxide of Zinc (158). 



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